Gilbert Vanderkraats' Obituary
Gilbert Vanderkraats, 84, of Proctorville, OH, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023 at St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, WV. He was born December 7, 1938 in Philadelphia, PA. Gilbert graduated from Marshall University with a Masters Degree in Bio-Chemistry. He later worked in real estate development and telecommunications. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Huntington, WV where he taught Sunday School and was a resident of Huntington for over 50 years. He enjoyed playing golf, traveling, antique collecting, and photography. He was a car enthusiast and loved to relax by gardening roses and listening to Broadway and Celtic music. He was a Mayoral and School Board candidate, as well as an active PTA parent in Huntington WV/Cabell County. Most important to him throughout his life was his devotion to family, as he was raised by his mother since the age of three. Gilbert was a family man. He always made a point to ensure he was involved in his children's lives. He raised his kids with high morals and values and to always do things with integrity. It was important to him to serve God by helping others. Large or small, anytime of day, dad would answer the call of service for neighbors and friends in need. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ada (Verwey) Vanderkraats and his sister, Gloria. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sydney; son, Dirk (Annette) Vanderkraats; daughter, Holly Livezey; granddaughter, Celia and son in law Tom. Hall Funeral Home & Crematory in Proctorville, OH is assisting the family. Private family services will be held. Condolences may be expressed at www.ehallfuneralhome.com.
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