Gilbert Stinson, 92

In Loving Memory of Gilbert Dean Stinson

Gilbert Dean Stinson, affectionately known as "Mr. Wonderful," was born on Jan. 11, 1929, and peacefully departed this world on July 5, 2021. While we had anticipated he might leave us with the fireworks, he chose to wait for his son, Mike, to return from a rafting adventure. Surrounded by his cherished family, he bid farewell to this life, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.

Gil was a devoted husband to Marilyn for 68 remarkable years, a loving father to daughter Suzan Brooks and son, Michael Stinson, and a proud grandfather to Megan Brooks, who selflessly cared for him and Marilyn for two years. His final words, "Thank you Megan," echoed the gratitude he carried in his heart, often expressed as "thank you, thank you, thank you."

Throughout his life, Gil was blessed with a circle of extraordinary friends, including Bill Dennis, Doug Schedler and Mick Hawley, who stood by his side at the North Idaho Hospice House, sharing laughter until the very end. Gil was renowned for his kindness, humor, serenity and unwavering support for those around him. He was very proud of making it to 92 1/2 years. Loved it when people mistook him for being much younger.

Gil was a successful businessman, the proud owner of "Copes Appliance" on Fourth Street, where he served the community for years. He and Marilyn traveled extensively, often funded by GE promotions. He had a passion for hunting, snow skiing and riding motorcycles and, later in life, he transitioned to ATVs to keep up with his friends' adventures.

Gil's dedication extended beyond his professional and recreational pursuits. He was an active member of the Lions Club, Kiwanis and the Presbyterian Church. Born in Portland, Ore., he was the eldest of four siblings, Dolores, Nessland (and husband Dave), Arlene (and husband George), and brother Don (and wife Pat). His bond with "Uncle Arnie Wilson," his mother's brother, was unbreakable. They grew up side-by-side, sharing every experience from stringing pole beans on the Wilson family farm to enlisting in the Air Force. Stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base, Gil's path intertwined with that of Marilyn Rubeck, whom he married in 1953. Their enduring love story spanned 68 years, blessed with two children, Mike (and his wife Helene), and Suzan Stinson-Brooks (and her "Mr. Wonderful" Steve George). Their family expanded with grandchildren Bonnie Stinson, Brianna and Justin Dieter, Mark Brooks (and his wife Natalie), and Megan Brooks (and her husband Evan Burt), along with grandchildren Jonathan and Kimberly George.

Gil leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but his memory will forever warm our hearts. We are certain that he was joyfully reunited with dear friends from Coeur d'Alene like Ed Servick and Ray Stewart. Also, Chuck Buffero, with whom he played football in high school. He also joined his aunts and uncles, "the Wilson crew," and his mother, Verla Wilson Johanson, for a lot of fun. We thank him for being "Mr. Wonderful" and setting the bar so high for the rest of us.

A celebration of Gil's remarkable life will be held Sept. 30 at 2:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 521 E. Lakeside Ave., Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Following the service, a reception will be held at 325 Military Dr., Coeur d'Alene.

Gil will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched, but his spirit will forever live on in our hearts. If there is a memory you would like to share, please share it on Gil Stinson's Facebook page.