Robert Lee Van Gilder

Robert Lee Van Gilder, 73, of Scio, died Tuesday, May 15, 2007 in Aultman Hospital at Canton following a courageous battle with cancer.A son of the late Harold and Alberta (Adams) Van Gilder, Robert was born December 2, 1933 in New Athens, Ohio.Robert was a 1951 graduate of Scio High School. Following graduation, he enlisted with the United States Army where he served as a supply sergeant.On June 14, 1958, Robert married the love of his life, the former Linda Reese. Together they raised two children, Tom and Gina.Robert was the owner and operator of Van Gilder Fence and Nail for over 54 years and he and Linda were also the owner and operators of Promise Tours for over 18 years.Over the years, Robert held many different positions in his community. He was the former president of the Ruritan Club as well as the Scio Civic Club. He served on the board of directors of both the former Scio Bank and Harrison Community Hospital. Robert was a former board chairmen for the Scio United Methodist Church and he was also a past president and vice president of the Full Gospel Businessmen of Harrison County.Robert enjoyed many hobbies as well. He enjoyed collecting antiques and whittling wood. He was an avid fisherman as well and he once was the recipient of the Angler of the Year Award in Winnipeg, Canada.He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Van Gilder, two children, Tom (Debbie) Van Gilder of New Philadelphia and Gina Van Gilder of Dover; grandchildren, Alexus Fields and David, Michael and Daniel Van Gilder; two aunts, Mary Corbin of Texas and Marie Fritter of Canton and an uncle, Ronnie Adams of Canton.In keeping with Robert’s wishes, there will be no public calling hours and cremation has taken place at the Geib Funeral Center at Dover. Inurnment will be held on Saturday, May 19, 2007 at 11 a.m. in Grandview Cemetery at Scio with Rev. Chuck Beatty officiating. The Veteran’s of Foreign Wars and the American Legion will perform military honors in recognition of Robert’s service to his country. A memorial luncheon will be held that afternoon at 1 p.m. in the fellowship hall at the Word of Faith Church at Dover. Memorial contributions may be made in Robert’s honor to the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, 525 North Broad, Canfield, OH 44406 or the Scio Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 342, Scio, OH 43988 or The Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214