Gilbert Lee Felfe entered this world July 30, 1935, in Thorndale, the son of Alma and Alvin Felfe, and returned to the heavenly Lord Feb. 7, 2022, at the age of 86.
Gilbert was born the fifth of seven children on the family farm in Thorndale.
He was raised in true German fashion where everyone was always invited, the door was always open and every event in life was a celebration.
Gilbert knew tragedy early in life with the unexpected loss of his father when he was just 8 years old. This experience taught him the importance of family and faith. Gilbert was a gracious host and loved celebrating every birthday and family event.
His career lasted for 38 years, retiring from Taylor Bedding. He would say he didn’t “work” because he enjoyed his job so much. He loved his work family and being “on the road” as a traveling salesman.
His working years started as an assistant manager at H-E-B. Many of the friendships he had for years began during his H-E-B years. He hesitated retiring, but it gave him the opportunity to pursue his passions for gardening, traveling and playing music.
Gilbert was introduced to music at a tender age. Although he had a few guitar lessons, it was through his gift and love for music that he selftaught by sitting in and playing with cousins at family celebrations where music was a central part.
Many may remember his “one man band” show playing the steel guitar, harmonica and bass drum. Later, after adding additional members to his band, Gilbert and Friends, he settled into playing his beloved dobro. He shared his love of music playing at church events, community clubs, jamborees, senior centers and area nursing homes.
His involvement in the community included the Optimist Club, where he was president and Lieutenant Governor, Kiwanis Club, Pasemann MAPS reading program and church elder at Trinity Lutheran and St. Paul’s Lutheran church in Thorndale. He was also treasurer and Sunday School teacher at St. Paul’s.
Gilbert met his wife in Austin in 1966, and married shortly after on Nov. 4, 1967, and made their home in Taylor. Children followed with the births of their daughter Kimberly and son Sidney.
Gilbert was welcomed into his heavenly kingdom by his parents; brothers, Eddie, Leroy and Landy; and sisters, Helen and Joyce.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Patricia; children, Kimberly Lefner and husband, Michael, of Flower Mound, and Sidney Felfe and wife Molly, of Rockwall; grandchildren, Claire Berry and husband Cameron, Brycen, Annemarie and Burke; great granddaughter, Adelida; brother, Curtis Felfe and wife Annette, of Austin; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is scheduled for Feb. 19, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylor. A gathering will follow immediately after.
A private burial will take place at Taylor City Cemetery.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation, may do so to Trinity Child Care and Development Center.
