WATERLOO, Iowa — Gilbert A. Gubbels, 90, Waterloo, Iowa, died with his family by his side March 12, 2025. Gil, as he was known by all whom he touched, was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and businessman, who will be remembered for his infectious laugh, zest for life, and unshakable belief in doing things right the first time. Gil was born June 12, 1934, to Irene and Walter Gubbels Sr., in Randolph. He attended grade school in Sholes, graduating from St. Frances Catholic High School, Randolph. After high school, he farmed with his father for two years before enlisting in the Army in February 1954. He married Marian (Mim) Kelsch Sept. 29, 1954, beginning a marriage that spanned 71 years of shared love, laughter and adventure.

After completing Army service, Gil and Mim moved to Omaha, where he attended Universal Trade School for Heating and Air Conditioning. Gil worked for Meyers Sheet Metal in Waterloo before opening his own business, Gubbels Heating and Air Conditioning, in 1966. Gil and Mim operated the business, which served the greater Waterloo and Cedar Falls area, for 31 years.

Gil enjoyed golfing, bowling, and cheering on the UNI Panthers. He was an avid gardener, taking great pride in his vegetable and flower gardens.

Gil’s love of boating and fishing at their lake house, surrounded by family and friends, was one of his greatest joys.

Gil was strong in his Catholic faith and was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church for over 60 years. As an active member of the community, he belonged to the Optimist Club, Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion. Well respected by the business community, Gil served as past president of the Heating and Air Conditioning Association and as a board member of the Hawkeye Heating Association.

Gil is survived by Mim, his wife of 71 years; daughters, Robin (Chip) Miller, Debby (Tim) Stack, Lyn Gubbels, and Kari (Bob) Schaffer; eight grandchildren, Danie Jo, Krista, Kelli, Derek, Ryan, Matt, Mitchell, and Eric; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Donna Lackas; and sisters-in-law, Rita Gubbels and Detta Gubbels.

Gil was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Sr. and Irene; three brothers, Rich, Ronald and Wally; sister, Francie Lenhoff; and grandson, Nathan A. Stack.