Virginia, Idaho

Ervin E. Gilbert, longtime Virginia resident, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, May 13, 2023 following a short illness.  Ervin was born at home on November 27, 1928 in Virginia, the son of Ettna and Lottie Gilbert. He was raised and educated in Virginia and Downey, ID.

Ervin married Colette Forrey on May 5, 1951 in Reno, NV.  They made their home on the family farm in Virginia, ID where they welcomed five children. Ervin farmed and ranched over 1800 acres and was a master irrigator!  He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Ervin was well known for soil and water conservation.  He was active for many years with the local and state soil conservation districts.  He was appointed by Governor John Evans to the Idaho Soil Conservation Commission in 1977.  He also served on the Federal Land Bank board of directors for several years.  Ervin was readily available to lend a hand to his neighbors and was helpful to passing motorists who needed directions, ran off the road or ran out of gas.  He also loved to travel.  He globe trotted to many places in North America and also made his way to the Soviet Union, South America and Australia.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Colette. Three children, Doug (Dianne) Gilbert, Sun City West, AZ, Scott (Lisa) Gilbert, San Tan, AZ  and daughter, Carol Gilbert, Chubbuck, ID. Daughter-in-law, Paula Gilbert, Sun City West, AZ.  He was preceded in death by two sons, Ellis E. Gilbert and Kent D. Gilbert, his parents, seven sisters and two infant brothers, a grand son-in-law and a great granddaughter.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 11 am in the Virginia LDS Ward chapel.  A viewing will be held prior to the services from 9:30 – 10:30 am.  Burial will follow in the Marsh Center Cemetery.

The family would like to gratefully thank DaNae Young and her staff at Heritage Home Health & Hospice for their excellent care of Ervin in his final days.

The funeral will be broadcasted and may be viewed by clicking on the link below.