Russell F. Gilbert, Ph.D.

Russell F. Gilbert, Ph.D., age 88, of 64 Trinity Terrace, Danville, and formerly of Bloomsburg, died early Friday morning January 6, 2023 at the Emmanuel Center for Nursing in Danville, where he was a patient.

Born in Mahoning Township., Montour County, on April 16, 1934, he was the son of the late Frederick H. and Eleanor (Derr) Gilbert. He resided in Ebensburg from 1978-1994, when he returned to Bloomsburg, residing there until he moved to Danville.

A graduate of the Montrose High School, Russell received a B.S. degree from East Stroudsburg Teachers College, a M.S. degree from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, and a Ph.D. from Penn State University.

Russell was employed by Intermediate Unit 8 from 1978-1994. At the time of his retirement, he was the Assistant Executive Director. He was previously employed by the Intermediate Unit 16 in Lewisburg and earlier in his life he was a Physical Education teacher and Guidance Counselor.

While residing in Ebensburg, he was active with numerous organizations including the Rotary Club. Upon returning to Bloomsburg, he was active with the Big Brothers – Big Sisters Program, served as a compeer for mental health, operated a farm, and attended many sporting activities at Bloomsburg University. He was also involved with the Appalachian Youth Advocate Program. He and his wife enjoyed winters in Florida for many years.

Russell served with the U.S. Army during the Korean War era from 1953-1955.

Surviving is his wife, the former Paula “Bibs” Eyerly, with whom he celebrated their 63^rd wedding anniversary on August 15, 2022; a son, Paul H. Gilbert, and his wife Deb, of Longboat Key, FL, and Bloomsburg; two daughters: Ellie, wife of Steve Roberts, of Bloomsburg, and Robin, wife of Paul Cirincione, of Towson, MD; six grandchildren: Jennifer, wife of Justin DeArmitt, Matthew Gilbert, and his wife Elyse, Adam Roberts, John Cirincione, Sarah Cirincione, and Grace Cirincione; five great-grandchildren: Remy DeArmitt, Alex DeArmitt, Madelyn Gilbert, Warren Gilbert, and Mayla Gilbert; and a sister, Becky Taylor, of Montrose.

Private services will be held by the immediate family at a later time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Dean W. Kriner Inc. Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 325 Market St., Bloomsburg.