Wayne Gilbert

A LIFE OF SERVICE AND LOVE 

Oliver Wayne Gilbert, age 93, entered into eternal rest on Friday, August 28, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. A devoted son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, Wayne leaves behind a legacy of love, honor, and lifelong service that touched his family, his fellow veterans, and his entire community. Wayne was a combat war hero. He served in heavy combat with the 7th Infantry Division, the storied "Hourglass Division," fighting on the front lines in North Korea, where he was wounded in action and survived a conflict that claimed the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. He went on to serve his country for 21 years, retiring as chief warrant officer. As President of the Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA) Chapter 249, Wayne became a tireless leader and advocate for his fellow veterans. He was a passionate voice for recognizing the Korean War as the "Korean War Victory," honoring the achievement of containing communism and allowing South Korea to survive and flourish as a democratic nation. Under his leadership, a new "Korean War Victory" monument bearing the names of all 100 El Paso veterans who lost their lives in the war was created and is set to be unveiled later this year. Beyond his military and veteran advocacy, Wayne was also a dedicated Lion for nine years, giving generously of his time, kindness, and friendship in service to others. Whether in uniform, at the podium, or among friends, Wayne's warmth and commitment to serving others left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. FAMILY Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Alene Gilbert, and his two sisters. He is survived by his loving wife, Katherine "Kay" Stern Gilbert; his son, Robert W. Gilbert (Erika); step-sons, Michael (Lisa) Stern and William(Angie) Stern; his granddaughter, Julia Gilbert; and seven step-grandchildren: Tyler Stern, Max Stern, Lindsay Stern, Mallorie Sutton, Jake Benson, Brody Stern, and Viviana Stern. HIS LEGACY: Oliver Wayne Gilbert was a highly respected U.S. Army veteran and a tireless leader in the El Paso veteran community. He leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will continue to live on through his family, his fellow Lions and Korean War veterans, and the community he so faithfully served. Rest in eternal peace, Wayne. Your service may be complete, but your legacy will never be forgotten.