Ralph W. Gilbert, age 95, Springfield, died peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on February 18, 2011. He was born September 18, 1915 in Independence Kansas to Luther and Georgia Gilbert. He attended Springfield Senior High school and business college. Ralph was a member of Christ Episcopal Church serving as a past vestry member and chalice bearer. Serving Meals on Wheels for eight years was, for him, a great joy and privilege. He served three years in World War II, having graduated from OCS at Aberdeen Proving Ground. He received a Lieutenants Commissions and spent two years in Italy and Corsica with the Army Air Corps. He retired from the Air Force Reserve as a Major. Ralph was a member of several service clubs including Rotary International over the years. Together with his parents he owned and operated Gilbert Furniture and Carpet Co. in Springfield for 39 years. He was a golfer and charter member of Twin Oaks Country Club. He was also a passionate trout fisherman at Lake Taneycomo, where he kept a boat for 19 years at Main Street Boat Dock in Branson. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Lee, and Mildred, his beloved wife of 68 years. He is survived by his daughter Susan Carrell and husband Winston Davis of Allenspark, CO., his daughter Kristen, of Springfield, and his daughter Mary Ann and husband Bruce Barton, of Springfield. Grandchildren are: Hayley Hicks of Fairfax, VA, Matthew Carrell of Huston, TX, Emily Pickett of Castle Rock, CO, and Kelsey Barton of Springfield. Great Grandchild is Ella Pickett of Castle Rock, CO. Ralph and family would like to thank special friend and caregiver, Gina Williams. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice Compassus, 1465 E. Primrose. A celebration of his life will be at Christ Episcopal Church on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 10:30 AM under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.