WEST BETHEL – Shirley Bradford Gilbert, 86, of West Bethel, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on July 21.

He was born in West Bethel on Feb. 8, 1920, the son of Robert and Lona (McLellan) Gilbert. He was educated in West Bethel and Bethel schools, graduating from Gould Academy in 1937.

In 1946, he married Marilyn Abbott of West Bethel. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 30.

During World War II, Shirley served with the 2nd Battalion, G Company, 25th Marines, 4th Division (Marine Rifle Company). He was in action in the Marshal Atolls (Roi-Namar), the Marianas (Saipan), and the Volcanos (Iwo Jima). He received Purple Hearts for wounds received in action at Saipan and Iwo Jima. Shirley also received a Commendation Citation for actions at Iwo Jima, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Ribbons with three Bronze Stars and an Expert Rifleman Medal.

Shirley was self-employed in the logging business from 1945 through 1962. He worked as a heavy equipment sales representative with Chawick-BaRoss Inc. for more than 20 years.

Shirley was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing with friends and family.

He also enjoyed teaching his grandchildren about nature.

Shirley was a member of the West Bethel Union Church, Bethel American Legion Post 0081, Bethel Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M. 97 and 4th Marine Division Association.

Shirley is survived by his wife, Marilyn of West Bethel; children, Bob and Linda Gilbert, LeeAnn and Jim Kennie, Lindie and Steve Blake, Reg Gilbert and Becky Doncaster; grandchildren, Andrea and Ted Desilets, Mike and Jennifer Gilbert, Heidi Blake, Kate Kennie, Malinda, Emily and Abby Gilbert, Laura and Jerry Shea; and great-grandchildren, Ryan and Rachel Gilbert and Jordan Desilets.

Shirley was predeceased by his parents; and brothers, Arthur, George, Keith and Randall Gilbert.