Michael Douglas Gilbert, 69, of the Braun home, Fayette, Missouri, passed into eternity, July 25, 2023.

Mike was born to Lynn Vance and JoAnn Stover Gilbert in Wood River, Illinois on August 20, 1953. Known as “Mikey” as a child, and often called “Buddy” as an adult, Mike meant more to his family than he ever understood. He was a special special-needs guy who lived joyfully and loved his family, the staff of the Braun home and Endless Options in Fayette.

There are no words to describe how one feels when you work with someone for years and then one day they are gone. The memories that are created and continue to run in your mind when you can no longer see that person. Mike had the biggest smile and the sweetest heart, who developed a bond so strong with those around him that that bond will never be broken. To have Mike as a friend was truly a precious gift. He could brighten even the darkest day with his smile and love of life. He saw the beauty in things others would walk past and not even notice.

Mike loved his fans and joked with everyone about how he was going to need to use his fan during his birthday party because he had so many candles to blow out and would need the help. His love for his walkie talkies and always wanting to take it with him anywhere he would go so he could communicate with the people he cherished throughout the day.

Mike loved the freedom of getting on his three wheeled bike and riding around his town waving at everyone who crossed his path and visiting all his favorite places.

The one constant of working with someone over so many years was the joy it gave to open the front door of Mike’s home and see him sitting there smiling, and no one can take that away. Each time you open that door you would see Mike and he would show you his latest, greatest fan and flashlight. Mike’s home will never be without a good light and good breeze. We will forever miss his beautiful heart but know he is in heaven sharing his microphone with the angels. We will forever be his walkie talkie buddies. 

Mike’s smile was contagious.  Mike loved his family, fishing, records, Johnny Cash and John Wayne, flashlights, record players, microphones, garage sales, shopping, fried chicken, Christmas tunes and his 3 wheeled bike.  “Just you and me buddy” many Braun Home staff and special friend Stephanie Brand will never forget how those 5 spoken words from Mike, put a big smile on faces. He will be greatly missed. Mike is preceded in death by his father, grandparents and older brother, David. 

He is survived by his mother, a brother, Lynn “Chris” (Mary) Gilbert, a nephew, Jesse Gilbert, two nieces, Julia Gilbert Coggins and Liz Wardlaw.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date to be announced.