John M. Gilson, age 73, of Ashby, MN, passed away June 29, 2020 at his home due to heart related issues. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 7, 2023 at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Ivanhoe, MN. Burial will be in the Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery, Ivanhoe, MN. Visitation will be held Thursday one hour prior to the service at the church. Houseman Funeral Home, Birk Chapel in Canby, MN is entrusted with the arrangements.
John M. Gilson was born to F.I. and Elizabeth Gilson in Tyler, MN on October 14, 1946. He attended public school in Ivanhoe, MN, graduating in 1964. John served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1970, during which time he was stationed in Thailand for one year. After graduating from Minnesota State University-Mankato, John was employed by Minnesota Mutual of St Paul, MN. John also worked as an independent software contractor. Prior to residing in Ashby, John resided for many years on Lake Big Chippewa near Brandon, MN. John was an avid fisherman enjoying many outings in Canada and Minnesota. The houseboat adventures were most memorable. John’s most treasured times were centered around his faithful companions; Hawk1, Patches, Emma1, Hawk2, Buster and Emm2. Many hours were spent in the fields and game farms chasing birds. John will be lovingly missed by family and an unbelievable number of friends.
He is survived by two sisters: Mary Skorczewski and Patricia O’Reilly; one brother Thomas Gilson; and many nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his mother Elizabeth Gilson, father F.I. Gilson, and his sister Kathleen Donoghue.
