Andrew J. “Jack” Gilbert, 79, of Safford, passed away on September 20, 2015. Jack was born in Phoenix, AZ, on April 30, 1936, to Andrew J. Gilbert Jr. and Helen Grace Gilbert.
Jack grew up in Bisbee, AZ, graduating from Bisbee High School in 1954. After graduating, he moved to Tucson where he attended the University of Arizona, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering. He was then able to begin work as an Engineer in Training, working for ADOT for almost 8 years. After leaving ADOT, Jack worked all over the state for his family’s business, A.J. Gilbert Construction Co. He took over this company in 1966 while his father ran for governor. As the business grew he moved his famly to Marana. It was during this time that W.A. Morris Sand and Gravel in Safford was purchased. In the 1990’s, he and Shirley made their home in Safford and later changed the name of the business to Tri County Materials. Jack always enjoyed working with family.
Jack was very involved in the community and many different organizations. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Perfect Ashlar Lodge #12, the Knights Templar, the Scottish Rights, the York Rights, and he was a charter member of Sabber Shriners Club. He was also a member of the Presbyterian Church in Safford.
Jack leaves behind a loving wife, Shirley, of Safford, son, Andrew J. Gilbert IV, of Safford, daughter Susan (Peter) Vlassis, of Safford, grandsons, Jarett Gilbert, of Tempe, George Vlassis, of Tucson, Steven Vlassis, of Tucson, and Brian Jackson Gilbert of Safford, and great-grandson, Zayden Jack Tomaselli, of Salinas, CA.
He was preceded in death by his father, Andrew J. Gilbert Jr., his mother, Helen Grace Gilbert, sister, Nancy Ann Gilbert and granddaughter, Jacqueline Casey Gilbert.
A viewing for Jack will be Thursday, September 24, 2015, from 6-8 p.m. at Caldwell Funeral Chapel and again on Friday, September 25, 2015, from 9-10 a.m. at the New Life City Church. A funeral service will follow at 10 a.m. at New Life City Church. Interment will be at 2:30 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery in Tucson, Arizona.
Services are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be offered to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.
