Edward Gilman

Ed Gilman was born in Chicago, Illinois, to James and Ida Gilman. He married Catherine Cisek on November 20, 1941. Ed joined the Army and served in the European Theatre in World War II. After the war ended he and his wife, Catherine (Kay), and son, Donald, moved from Illinois to Minnesota. They bought and operated a family resort in Fifty Lakes for over 35 years. Ed also owned and operated Gilman's Plumbing and Heating until he retired. He also retired as a school bus driver, driving family and other children out to meet the Pine River School Bus. Ed was active in Fifty Lakes government, serving over 20 years as a Council Member and later as the Mayor of Fifty Lakes Village.

After retiring, Ed and Kay wintered in Bahia Kino, Mexico for many years. While there, they helped raise funds to build a new church for their adopted winter community.

Ed was passionate of his love of fishing and conservative politics.

Surviving is his youngest sister, Ida Schoenveld, Fort Myers, FL; his children: Gary (Marilyn) of Willmar, Cathy (Tim) Switajewski of Pine River, Mary Kay (Larry) Novakoski, Little Falls, Dennis Gilman, Scottsdale, AZ, Rose Gilman, Pine River; 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine; son, Donald; brother, John; and sisters, Catherine and Babe.

The family hopes Ed will be remembered most for his love of family. And his love of the outdoors. And finally, we know he would apologize for his funeral on Fishing Opener.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 AM on Saturday, May 9, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Pine River. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 7 PM, with Rosary at 7 PM, at Kline Funeral Home, Pine River, and one hour prior to the service at the church.