James Gilbert

James Gilbert, 89, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026, in Colorado, with his wife by his side.

He was born July 7, 1936, in Raton, New Mexico, into a coal mining family, and was raised in Albuquerque. He attended St. Mary’s High School and later attended college in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and New Orleans, Louisiana.

He met his future wife, Rose, in Albuquerque while she was working as a carhop—he was a senior in high school and she was a sophomore. That meeting led to a 69-year marriage.

After marrying Rose, he entered the United States Air Force and trained as a pilot, flying the F-100. Following his service, he began his civilian career at Sandia National Laboratories as a nuclear engineer, where he built a successful and respected career.

At the center of his life was his family. Together, James and Rose raised five children. He was a steady, hardworking provider who believed in his role as a husband and father, ensuring his wife could be at home raising their children. Through the way he lived, he taught his children how to live—with responsibility, discipline, and commitment.

His legacy continues through a growing family that includes 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Vivian Gilbert; his mother, Cruzita Valdez; his sister, Viola Gilbert; and his brother, Ronnie Gilbert.

He is survived by his wife, Rose Gilbert; and his children:

Ron Gilbert (Kary),

James Gilbert (Elubia),

Jeanne Schwieger (Tim),

Michelle Arnold (Rick),

and Vincent Gilbert (Karin).

A rosary will be held at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass at 11:00 a.m., on April 17, 2026, at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Windsor, Colorado. A reception will follow at the American Legion in Windsor.

Burial will take place at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Albuquerque, New Mexico.