Gilbert Irps

Hardworking and a devoted provider for the family he deeply loved, the memory of Gilbert Irps will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He was a proud, United States Veteran, and liked keeping busy with the organizations he stood by. A man hailing from "the greatest generation", Gilbert will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Gilbert's story began in the year 1924. Calvin Coolidge was the 30th President of the United States, and industry was booming in the U.S. With the economy soaring, the Roaring Twenties brought excitement to the air within an ever changing culture. In the small, rural village of Chebanse, Illinois, George and Constance (Risser) Irps had much to be thankful for when they welcomed the birth of their little boy, Gilbert A. Irps on February 12, 1924.

One of three children in his family, Gilbert grew up alongside his two siblings, Dale and Janice. He experienced a childhood typical of the times playing outdoor games with neighborhood friends and attended the area schools. Like most families during the Great Depression, many struggled during these times of hardship, and Gilbert's family was no exception.

The onset of World War II and America's involvement following the attack on Pearl Harbor found many young men feeling the call to duty. From 1941 to 1946, Gilbert proudly served our country as a U.S. Navy Seabee during the war. No longer nestled in his quiet community in Illinois, Gilbert traveled far and wide, and sacrificed for those on the home front. He experienced much during his time in the service, and from the beginning on to the war's end, Gilbert fought side-by-side with his comrades, and celebrated with the nation as the war thankfully came to a grateful end.

Following his honorable discharge, Gilbert returned home to pick up his life where he had left off. No longer a young boy, he was now a man with hopes and dreams for the future. One of those dreams included a young gal he had been sweet on by the name of Rosemary Brassard. After dating for a time and in love, Gilbert married his sweetheart in 1950. They settled in Kankakee, and soon began a family of their own which came to include the love of seven children. A bustling household, Gilbert and Rosemary raised their daughters Lana, Karen, and Connie, and sons Carl, Terry, Randy, and Gary in faith as members of the Congregational United Church of Christ.

Gilbert worked hard to support his thriving family. Although on the road frequently, he worked as a truck driver for DeSelm Lumber Company for 30 years. From there he took on work as a mechanic for the Kankakee Valley Park District where he remained for the next 28 years of his career. He eventually retired in December of 2007, just months shy of his 84 birthday!

Even before retiring, Gilbert was always on the go. Along with his family, work, and church activities, he found time to be involved in some of the things of interest to him. He enjoyed collecting International Harvester wrenches, antiques, and was an avid White Sox fan. Gilbert served as a past Master of St. Anne Masonic Lodge and past Worthy Patron of Eastern Star #279. He was also a member of the Aroma Park American Legion, a 63 year member of the Seabee Veterans of America, and Vintage Squadron Flight #1. In 2009, Gilbert was a proud participant of the Honor Flight Chicago – Chicago Vets to Washington D.C. which was a great highlight for him.

It was, however, Gilbert's heart desire to visit Hawaii to see the Pearl Harbor Memorial . Due to some family connections, Gary's wife, Gilbert's daughter-in-law, Ginger arranged for an Elite Private Navy Admiral's tour for Gilbert. Having been a World War II Veteran, he was treated with great respect and honor by the entire staff during his visit. There are no words to describe how Gilbert felt about his trip, but his pride and honor shone bright. For the family members who accompanied him on this most memorable occasion, fulfilling one of Gilbert's dreams will remain in their hearts forever.

A gentle man who had a gracious heart, Gilbert was beloved by all. He lived simply in many respects, and taught those around him a good work ethic, and the utmost dedication. His smile clearly said it all which will be fondly remembered as he is deeply missed.

Gilbert A. Irps, 90, of Kankakee passed away peacefully, Tuesday, October 28, 2014 at his home. Gilbert is survived by his wife Rosemary; three daughters and two sons-in-law: Lana K. Pourroy of Sycamore, Karen and Linden White of Bradley, and Connie and Mark Jauch of Kankakee; his four sons and daughters-in-law: Carl and Deborah Irps of Kankakee, Terry and Yvonne Irps of Kankakee, Randy and Beth Irps of Bourbonnais, and Gary and Ginger Irps of St. Charles. Also surviving are his 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; his brother Dale Irps of Florida; sister Janice Geisinger of Texas; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandchild, Adam Carl Irps.

A gathering of family and friends will be held Sunday, November 2, 2014 at the Kankakee Chapel of the Schreffler Life Story Funeral Home from 1:00-5:00 p.m. and on Monday, November 3, 2014 from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The service will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Monday at the Kankakee Chapel of the Schreffler Life Story Funeral Home. Burial will be held at Kankakee Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Kankakee Valley or the Aroma Park Fire Department. Please visit www.schrefflerfuneralhomes.com where you can learn more about Gilbert’s life, share a favorite memory or photo and sign his online guestbook.