Gareth Franklin Gilson, 79, of Phoenix, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Feb. 26, 2025.
Born on October 21, 1945, in Columbia, Mo., he was raised in Eureka. He attended Eureka High School, graduating in 1964.
Gareth developed a deep love for aviation early in life. He proudly served his country as a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War, flying the UH-1 'Huey' helicopter. His bravery and skill earned him the Bronze Star Medal and the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross. After his honorable discharge, he continued his service in the Air National Guard for over 20 years.
Gareth’s passion for flight defined his career. One of his most treasured possessions was a 1948 Aeronca Sedan, passed down to him from his grandfather, Jack Wallace. He worked as a pilot for Midwest Corporate Aviation in Wichita, where he flew the LifeWATCH helicopter for Wesley Hospital before transitioning to private aviation, piloting the King Air and later the innovative Beechcraft Starship. In addition to his career as a pilot, Gareth was a skilled flight instructor, training and mentoring countless pilots all throughout his career.
Gareth was preceded in death by his father, Geoffrey Gilson, also an aviator; his mother, Geraldine Marshall; and his stepfather, Lew Marshall. He is survived by his three children, Amanda, Geoffrey, and Jennifer, as well as five beloved grandchildren. Gareth also leaves behind two sisters, Madelon Griblin and Becky Keyes, who reside in Arizona and two brothers, Marc Gilson and Bryan Marshall, both of Eureka.
Cremation will take place and Gareth will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. A celebration of his life will take place in Eureka, at a later date.
“Skill Not Luck.”
