Robert "Bob" Eugene Gilchrist

Robert “Bob” Gilchrist, 81, of Merkel, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, April 20, 2023 in Merkel, TX.

Bob was born November 19, 1941, in Raleigh, NC to Mr. and Mrs. Clyde H. Gilchrist. He went to school in Cary, NC. Bob joined the Army shortly after and that brought him to Abilene, TX. He met the love of his life Veta. They eloped to Mexico on February 1, 1962 and they began their life together. For 61 years they never left each other’s side. Through thick and thin, they were truly each other’s best friend.

Bob was a husband, a Daddy. His grandkids called him Bob, Honey, Grandad, Pops, and Pop-Pop. He worked for Wes-Tex Drilling as a tool pusher for 20 years. After retiring, you could find him piddling around. He loved to read, woodwork, garage sailing, making a variety of crafts, singing songs at random times, and constantly making jokes. Bob was a hard-working man and his family never had to worry. He was a provider. A man of integrity, where he would look you in the eye, a handshake sealed the deal, and his word was his bond. He will be remembered for always trying to help people when he could.

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Veta; children: Patricia (Rick) Pike, George (Pam) Gilchrist, Juanita (Richard) Marshall, all of Merkel. Grandkids: Tara (Michael) Shearer, Lewis (Kenzie) Gilchrist, Hope Gilchrist, Warren (Kinsley) Pike, Faith Marshall, Chelsey (Chris) McBride, along with ten great-grandchildren and many “kids” he adopted and provided for along the years.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 23, 2023 from 5-7 p.m. at Starbuck Funeral Home Chapel. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 24, 2023 at Starbuck Funeral Home Chapel. Brother John Rush will be officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Starbuck Funeral Home

The family would like to express their thanks to the Merkel Police Department, Justice of the Peace, and Starbuck Funeral Home for their respect and compassion shown during this difficult time. Donations can be made to The American Heart Association or West Texas Rehabilitation Center in Bob’s name.

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