Gilbert Michael Kirsch

Gilbert Michael Kirsch 92, went to his heavenly home on July 26th, 2016 after a brief illness. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.

Gilbert was born to the late Theodore and Elise (Blom) Kirsch, in Plymouth County, Iowa on July 11, 1924. He was a devout Catholic. Gilbert grew up on a farm in Iowa then his father moved his family to Michigan. Gilbert started farming with his father until 1943 when he drafted into the US Army. He was an MP and an ambulance driver on the front line. Gilbert served in the European Campaign during WWII.

After returning from the war Gilbert went back to farming and started working in a factory. During this time Gilbert met and married the love of his life Beverly Lee VanValkenburg. They were married October 31, 1953 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Adrian, MI.

Gilbert moved his family to Morenci, MI where he continued to farm and work as a supervisor in a factory. Gilbert helped raise his three children with patience discipline and love. He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his Lord.

Gilbert is survived by his wife, Beverley Lee of Wauseon, Ohio, their three children Michael Gilbert (Patricia) Kirsch of South Haven, MI, Elise Marie (Timothy) Kretz of Defiance, Ohio, Marie Annette (John) Kessler of Wauseon, Ohio. Gilbert was blessed with 7 Grand Children, 15 Great Grand Children and one, Great, Great Granddaughter, his sister Verena Bartholomy of Toledo, Ohio along with many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brothers Pierre and Gordon Kirsch and his sisters Florentine Kirsch and Dorothy Ballenburger, and his parents Theodore and Elise Kirsch.

The showing will be held at St. Casper’s Catholic Church in the Pope John the 23rd room during the hours of 2pm to 8pm on July 29th, 2016. The funeral mass will take place at St. Casper’s Catholic Church on July 30th, 2016 at 11am. Gilbert will be laid to rest in the Saint Casper’s Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be given to the Wauseon Fire Department or The Community Service Hospice of Defiance. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.GrisierFH.com. The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon has been entrusted with arrangements.  

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