Gilbert returned home to the Creator on July 12, 2011, at the age of 73. He passed on peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Gilbert was born on December 1, 1937, to Edward Little Bear and Ruth (Beebe), he was the second eldest in a family of ten. He attended St. Mary’s residential school at the age of six and completed at the age of sixteen, he went on to school for two years at Lebrett, Sask. He continued to further his education at Olds College, and graduated in 1957. Gilbert met his life’s companion, Philomena (No Runner) in 1957, and together lived a gentle existence for 54 years. Their union was defined by mutual devotion and the ensuing years only deepened their love. Gilbert was a dedicated family man, a loving father to Tom (Amanda), Joanne and Cynthia. His home was the hub of activity for his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Although, much of his adult life was marked by ill health, Gilbert lived a full life. He organized activities for the neighborhood children and was always the only adult amongst them playing hockey, football or track and field. He was a rancher, a Saddle and Bareback Bronc rider and broke horses. He often went Fire Fighting throughout the United States. Gilbert was known for his skill in leatherwork, making chaps and various horse tack. He was awarded the Provincial Sharp shooter in 1953. He loved to plant shrubs, trees and gardens. He was an avid reader of National Geographic. Never one to complain nor to speak harsh words, he was a friend to all, a humble man. Gilbert had a wicked sense of humor and his antics are often retold. Always the generous host, no one left his home without a meal or gift. Gilbert was a spiritual person, his rosary was his comfort. He was a firm believer of the Blackfoot way of being, and faithfully attended the yearly Sundance. Gilbert is survived by his siblings; Morris, Leroy (Amethyst), Patrick (Christine), Beverly (John) and Gary (Lisa). Also surviving him is his brother-in-law, Donald No Runner and sisters-in-law, Frances and Della No Runner. He was predeceased by his grand daughters; Tawny Jo Healy and Morning Star Little Bear, his parents; Edward and Ruth, and brothers; William, Leo, Leonard and sister, Evelyn Rose. Also predeceasing him are his parents-in-law; Bob and Helen, brother-in-law; Lawrence and sisters-in-law; Dorothy Cross Child and Nancy Ruth. Gilbert will be forever missed by his wife; Philomena, and children; Tom, Joanne and Cindy, his Adopted children; Clayton No Runner, Delphine Cross Child and Brian Wadsworth. Grandchildren; Melodie (J.J), Brandy (Audie),Tommy, Lily, Bailee, Dacey, Darwin, Cian. Great grandchildren; Sydney, Nola, Brody, Marlee, Connor, Krysta, Tawny Jo, and his only sister Beverly with whom he had a special bond. Relatives and Friends are invited to Wake Services at OLD AGENCY HALL, Blood Reserve on Monday, July 18, 2011 from 7:00 P.M. to 12:00 P.M. Funeral Services will be held at OLD AGENCY HALL on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Michael Tipper officiating. Interment to follow in the One Spot, Old Agency Cemetery. Honoured to serve the family, CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 7B1. Telephone (403) 381-7777. E-mail: care@cornerstonefh.ca