Dr. Gary Frans Gilbertson

Dr. Gary Frans Gilbertson, 85, departed this life on May 25, 2024.

Born at home on the family farm in Kanabec County, Minnesota, Gary received his early education in a one-room schoolhouse before attending University High School in Minneapolis. He graduated with honors from college and medical school at the University of Minnesota, while working as a cook, truck driver and orderly. After completing an internship in Morgantown, West Virginia, he served in the U.S. Navy before returning to the University of Minnesota to complete two surgical residencies.

In 1975, he moved with his young family to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he built a practice in colon and rectal surgery. A skilled surgeon, he practiced the art of healing, taking care to treat the whole patient. He tended to men and women from every walk of life with the same kindness and compassion, making himself available at all hours of the day and night, never concerning himself with a person’s ability to pay. Throughout his life, he remained true to his roots and did not flaunt his success or achievements.

He was an avid and accomplished windsurfer, enjoying time spent with his son at Keystone Lake and later on Padre Island. Among the happiest years of his retirement were those spent RV’ing and teaching trail dance with his wife at Carefree Country Club. He had a keen intellect and shared a love of investing with his daughter. He was proud of all of his family, and particularly his grandchildren, whom he treasured and was grateful to see grow into adulthood.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Alice; his daughter, Kristin; his son, Erik; and his grandchildren, Courtney and Matthew (Emily). He lives forever in the hearts of those who loved him.