LeRoy Dean Gilbertson - Obituary

eRoy Gilbertson, 85, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s/Dementia, leaving behind a life defined by service and deep devotion to his family. LeRoy was born on November 5, 1940, in Madison, Wisconsin, to Roy and Mildred (Ladroute) Gilbertson. He was married to his beloved wife, Hao (Phan) Gilbertson, for 55 years. Together, they raised a daughter, Christine Olszewski (Scott) of South Kingstown, RI, and two sons, David Gilbertson (Megan) granddaughters Mia and Grace of Round Hill, VA, and Michael Gilbertson (Gabriela) grandson Mateo of Smyrna, GA. He is survived by his brother, Gary Gilbertson (Mary) of Uvalde, TX, and his sister, Ginny Flanders (Barry) of San Antonio, TX; his brother-in-law, Phuoc “Frank” Phan of Garden Grove, CA, and his sister in law Toan (Phan) Le of Monterey Park, CA; his half-brother, Mark Gilbertson of Nashua, NH; and several nieces and nephews. LeRoy had a lifelong love for animals, especially dogs. Over the years, Perry and later Max brought him joy, companionship, and unconditional love. He honorably served in the United States Navy, retiring in August 1977 after a distinguished career that included assignments at the White House under Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Gerald Ford. His dedication and professionalism were recognized with the Fifth Good Conduct Award and the Combat Action Ribbon, reflecting his integrity, discipline, and courage. Following his military retirement, LeRoy worked as a cameraman and audio technician for ABC News Nightline in Washington, D.C., where his steady presence and keen eye helped tell important stories with professionalism and care. Outside of work, LeRoy found happiness outdoors. He was known for his beautiful flower and vegetable gardens, cultivated with patience and pride and often shared with friends and neighbors. He loved fishing the rivers of Maryland, finding peace along the water with a rod in hand. A lifelong night owl, he could often be found at the computer, coffee in hand, thoughtfully planning his gardens and dreaming of the next season’s blooms. LeRoy’s deep faith was a cornerstone of his life. He loved being part of his church community, not only in worship but in service, often managing the sound during sermons so that others could hear and feel the message clearly. He served as a lay assistant on a rotating basis, supporting the pastor during church services. His quiet dedication to helping others reflected his thoughtful and dependable character. Above all, LeRoy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, reliability, and the way he embraced life with joy. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many lives he touched. We take comfort knowing that LeRoy has been welcomed into eternal peace, reunited with loved ones who went before him, and now rests in the loving presence of the Lord. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in LeRoy’s memory to Grace Lutheran Church 10928 Indian Head Hwy, Ft Washington, MD 20744. Relatives and friends are invited to gather for LeRoy's Life Celebration on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 2 P.M. until the start of the service at 3 P.M. at Grace Lutheran Church, 10928 Indian Head Highway, Fort Washington MD 20744. Interment to be held at Maryland Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery at a later date.