Central 1942 Gilbert Fredrick Thalke

Gilbert Fredrick Thalke, 93, formerly of Scottsdale, passed away on April 29, 2016. Gilbert was born in Menasha, Wisconsin to parents Frank and Erline Thalke and raised in South Bend, Indiana by Ernest and Bertha Thalke. Gilbert graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1942. A tool and die maker/machinist by trade, he was employed by the South Bend Lathe Works until he and his family relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona in 1962 where Gilbert was employed by Motorola, Inc. until he retired in January 1987. After retirement, Gilbert and his wife Jean Ann traveled numerous times to Europe, especially Germany. In addition to traveling, Gilbert enjoyed gardening, was a member of the Sun Lakes Lions Club and Freemasons. Gilbert was also a gifted woodworker and machinist. The times he most cherished were those spent with his family. Gilbert is survived by his wife of 72 years, Jean Ann; his children, daughters Connie Lindstrom (David), Marilou Estes (James), and son Donald Thalke (Kathryn); his grandchildren Roger and Beth Lindstrom, Amy Thalke-Johns and Daniel Thalke, and a great-grandson Cason Johns. A private family memorial will be held in his honor. Interment services arranged by Green Acres Mortuary and Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Grace Foundation, c/o Hospice Family Care, 1550 S. Alma School Road Suite 102, Mesa, AZ 85210.

Published in The Arizona Republic on May 8, 2016

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