Bainbridge Island resident Charlotte W. Gilbert, age 76, died March 14 at her home, surrounded by her family.
She was born Oct. 16, 1927 in Tacoma, the daughter of Francis and Bernice (Overmeyer) Wenke. As a child, she delighted in spending time at Burton on Vashon Island and long walks on the beach.
She attended Ravenna Elementary, graduated from Roosevelt High School in Seattle where she was president of the Girl’s Club and attended the University of Washington where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Beta Sorority.
She married William S. Gilbert June 16, 1948 in the University Presbyterian Church. They lived in the Seattle area for many years until moving to Bainbridge Island in 1972 after discovering the place that would be her home for the rest of her life and making a spontaneous decision to buy it.
She was a member of the Rhododendron Society and Arboretum, wild mushroom hunters, and loved to travel. At an event on Blake Island, Charlotte met Julia Childs and they formed an instant bond.
She is survived by her husband, William, Bainbridge Island; one son, William S. Gilbert, Jr., Cordova, Alaska; two daughters, Ann Palmer, Vashon Island and Alice Thomes, Bainbridge Island; and eight granddaughters and four great grandchildren.
A private family service will be held at a later date. Remembrances may be made to Helpline House, 282 Knechtel Way, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.
Arrangements are under the direction of Kass Funeral Home.