GILBERT KLIPFEL

Gilbert Herbert Klipfel lost his battle with cancer January 26 at the age of 72. Gil was born September 8, 1948 in Ipswich, South Dakota. His family moved to Lodi in 1952. Gil graduated from Lodi High School in 1967 and was drafted into the Army where he served with the Screaming Eagles 101 St Airborne Division, Airmobile in Vietnam. In 1971 he married Catherine Baumgartner and made their home in Lodi. Gil worked many years at Guild Winery, General Mills Squeez-it Plant and retired from Holz Rubber Company shipping and receiving. Gil loved fishing and was a cofounder of the No Name Striper Club. He belonged to many organizations throughout the years but was currently an active member of the Moose Club. Tuesdays were his favorite day of the week, senior day at Jackson Rancheria Casino, how he loved to see and talk to his friends!

Gil is survived by his partner of 27 years, Rosy Rathjen; his mother, Dolores Klipfel; brothers, Russell (Sharon) and Todd Klipfel, sons, Jonathan (Sherri), Jason (Marci) and Joseph (Stephanie) Klipfel; stepchildren, Lisa Ereth and Robert (Monica) Rathjen; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Destiny, Jayde, Mason, Erianna, Catherine, Devin, Samantha, Thomas, Allison and Kai.

Gil was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine; father, Herbert; and brother, Mark Klipfel.

There will be a graveside service February 9 at 1:00 PM at Cherokee Memorial Park. Viewing will be at Cherokee Funeral Home from 9 am - 12 pm at 831 Industrial Way Lodi. Because of Covid we will have a celebration of life later! In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hospice of San Joaquin County.

Please sign the guest book at lodinews.com/ guestbook.