Gilbert W. Westbrook

Gilbert W. Westbrook, age 78, of Dover and formerly of New Philadelphia, died Thursday, January 10, 2013, in Union Hospital at Dover following a brief illness.

A son of the late Clyde and Rosetta (Cox) Westbrook, Gilbert was born at Mineral City, Ohio on August 12, 1934.

Following graduation from the former Magnolia High School, he entered into the United States Army and honorably served our country from 1953-1956. In the years that followed Gilbert joined the oil industry and worked for a number of firms that specialized in drilling until an injury on the job would not allow him to continue his work.

In his free time Gilbert enjoyed fishing, reading western novels and playing cards.

He is survived by a son, Darrel Westbrook of Perrysville, Ohio; a step-daughter Jonalee (Michael) Fernatt of New Philadelphia; three sisters, Ferol (George) Debranski of Freemont, Ohio, Leta (Bob) Hogel of Wooster, Ohio and Julie (Joe) Drovey of North Industry, Ohio; and a brother, Clarence (Sally) Westbrook of New Philadelphia.

Two step-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews complete the family.

In addition to his parents, Gilbert was preceded in death by his wife, Debra D. Westbrook, whom he married on January 23, 1981, and a son, Clifford Westbrook.

The family will receive friends on Monday, January 14, 2013 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. A graveside service with military honors will be led by Rev. Hugh B. Berry on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 11:00 AM in the Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia.

Following the committal, all are invited to join the family for a meal and fellowship in the Geib Family Center at New Philadelphia.