Kenneth “Kenny” Kean Gilbert was born on November 15, 1946 in Huron, South Dakota to Cecil and Mabel (Saugstad) Gilbert. He grew up on the family farm south of Doland, where he attended country school near LaDelle before graduating from Doland High School in 1964.

Shortly after graduation, Kenny proudly joined the United States Army. He served in the 327th Infantry and later attended jump school, becoming a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division. In 1965, he was deployed to Vietnam as part of the distinguished 101st Airborne Division. Kenny was honorably discharged on June 21, 1967, having received several awards for his dedicated service.

After his military service, Kenny returned home to the family farm, where he spent the remainder of his life working alongside his brother, Gary, and later his son, Matt. His greatest joy was farming and caring for the land he loved deeply. Kenny served on the Antelope Township board for 49 years.

In his younger year, Kenny enjoyed trapping and hunting, and as he grew older, reading became a cherished pastime. He particularly loved starting his days with a cup of coffee and a good book.

Kenny marriedVictoria Hewitt in August of 1968, and together they have three children: Hollie, Scott, and Lyza. He later married Vickie Mattke on July 6, 1979, and they had a son, Matt. Kenny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Vickie; his children: Hollie Barrie of Huron, Scott Gilbert of Huron, Lyza (Zane) Bixler, and Matt (Brenda) Gilbert; his grandchildren: Josh Barrie, Kymberlie (Jordan) Smith, Jared (Brandi) Barrie, Heather (Cole) Chaplin, Erin (Logan) Leidholt, Jennfier LaBrie, Jessica LaBrie, Tanner Gilbert, Ryan Bixler, Bennett Bixler, Grady Gilbert, Emmitt Gilbert. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren: Blake, Beckett, Jovi, Sutton, Cooper, Makenna Savvy, Luka, Hudson, McKoy, and Leo. Kenny is further survived by his brother, Gary (Donna) Gilbert; sisters, Judy (Dave) Mendel and Janice (Curt) Foster; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Mabel Gilbert, sister Diane Gilbert in infancy, nephew Jason Mendel, and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Kenny’s legacy is one of dedication— to his country, his family, and the land he so dearly loved. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.