Suddenly at home on Saturday, February 19, 2022 of RR 2 Dublin, at the age of 76. Gilbert was born in Lichtervelde, Belgium and was the loving husband of Ricki (Willems) Vansteelandt for over 51 years; Proud father of Tanya and Kevin Quipp, and Karen and Michael Buckley; Adored Poppa of Colton, Lucas, Ella, and Sophie; Dear brother and brother-in-law of Frank and Dorothy Vansteelandt, Ron Hyde, Peter and Elsie Willems, Anne and Maro VanRooy, Gerda and Cor VandenHoven, Maria (John) Vogels, and Jo Skoblenick. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents George and Andrea Vansteelandt, John and Marie Willems, sister Christine Hyde, brothers-in-law Achiel Goosens, John Willems Jr., and Steve Skoblenick.
Gilbert took pride in the homestead he built in Hibbert township from the ground up and the land he farmed to provide for his family. His farm was an integral part of who he was as a person. Each day he spent time outside in his shed, in a field or in the bush cutting wood. He enjoyed meeting farmers from around the world on his vacations with Ricki and learning about their farming practices. Gilbert was kind and confident, which led him to be on the boards of the Tuckersmith Communications Corporation and the Ontario Bean Board for many years. He had a great sense of humour, loved his community, was a hard worker and enjoyed talking with farmers, which is why working for Agricorp was the perfect fit.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 87 Goderich Street West, SEAFORTH on Monday afternoon from 2 – 4 PM.
Gilbert’s Funeral Mass will be held at St. James Catholic Church 22 Victoria Street, Seaforth on Tuesday, March 1st at 11 AM with Father Philip Joseph presiding. Interment will be held in the spring at St. James Catholic Cemetery, Seaforth.
Due to Provincial COVID-19 restrictions, each person must register and provide proof of vaccination to attend the visitation and Funeral Mass. Please click “Register Now” below, to register. Proof of vaccination can be obtained by visiting covid19.ontariohealth.ca.
If you are unable to attend the Funeral Mass, the family invites you to join with them from the comfort of your home. Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh.
Donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation or Diabetes Canada would be appreciated by the family. Condolences may be forwarded through www.haskettfh.com.
