Alva Review-Courier -

Gilbert Michaelis was born August 21, 1937, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son of H.E. "Mac" Michaelis and Bernice (Lipprand) Michaelis. He passed away peacefully on July 12, 2017, at the age of 79.

He now joins his wife, Roberta Joan Michaelis, who passed away September 4, 2004.

He is survived by Dale and Kathye Michaelis of Oklahoma City; Mike and Dana Michaelis of Argyle, Texas; B.J. and Sheila Michaelis of Parker, Colorado; and Patricia Michaelis of Tulsa, as well as 11 grandchildren – Misty, Alan, Adrienne, Derek, Austin, Brandon, Michaela, Devin, Jared, Baxter and Garret – and six great-grandchildren: Beckett, Reese, Declan, Telesa, Raven and Jaden.

Gilbert grew up in Russell and Great Bend, Kansas, graduating from Great Bend Senior High School and then entering the United States Air Force. He and his wife, Roberta, settled in Alva and raised their family. Gilbert owned and operated Mid Continent Insurance Agency until his death. He was an active aviator and Mason.

The family requests in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the Northwestern OSU Foundation Roberta Michaelis Memorial Scholarship at https://my.nwfoundation.com or the Alva Masonic Lodge.

Family visitation will be held at Wharton Funeral Chapel in Alva from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 19, at the Alva First Baptist Church with Rev. Chris Ruwaldt, pastor, officiating. Interment will follow in the Alva Municipal Cemetery. Wharton Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be made online at http://www.whartonfuneralchapel.com.