Calvin Michael Wilbert passed away on March 28, 2023. He was born on May 18, 1925, on the family farm in Cherokee County, Kansas, to Albert and Alice Wilbert. Calvin was the last surviving member of his family of ten brothers and sisters.
Calvin was preceded in death by his wife Ellen of 59 years, grandson Dillon and ten brothers and sisters. He is survived by his children, Jane Eggert (Charles), Vicki Townsley (William), Dennis (Amy), and David (Barbara); nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Calvin served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was stationed in the South Pacific. He served alongside four of his brothers who were also in the Navy and remained close with many of his shipmates over the years. Calvin and his wife Ellen attended yearly Navy reunions with his shipmates until the early 2000’s, and made an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. with his brother Jim in 2011.
After the war, Calvin returned to Kansas and met the love of his life Ellen Baldelli. They were married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, KS on June 12, 1948.
They eventually settled in Derby in 1954 and raised their family of four children there.
Calvin was active in his community and participated in many church, school, and civic activities. He was a Charter member of Knights of Columbus council #4458, was a fourth-degree member and served as Grand Knight. He was also a Charter member of the VFW #7253 post in Derby, was a member of the Derby American Legion, served on the Derby City Council, was President and director of the Crime Stoppers Organization in Derby and served as president of the Pipefitters union local #171.
Calvin was a man of strong Catholic faith and raised his family in the same faith. He and Ellen participated in many charities, including working at the Lord’s Diner in Wichita together for many years. Calvin was known for his humor and wit, and always had a quick comeback or funny saying for every situation. He was particularly fond of saying "no step for a stepper" and "in my next life I want to come back rich instead of so good looking."
Calvin's faith guided him through life, and he did his best to make his community a better place.
He was truly an example of the greatest generation. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
As we mourn the loss of Calvin, we take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved wife Ellen and his family who have passed on. We also find comfort in the words of Psalm 23:4, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church Building Fund.