Diana Lila Gilbert

Diana Lila Andrew Gilbert, a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025 — just one month shy of her 67th birthday, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Downsview, Ontario, to Jim and Sylvia Andrew, Diana had a joyful childhood. She spent four formative years in Germany before her family settled in the Ottawa area.

At 21, just a year after completing a diploma as a Rehabilitation Practitioner, Diana married the love of her life, Lan Gilbert. Three days after their wedding, they began their westward journey, honeymooning across the country and eventually planting roots in Calgary — a city they would call home for the next 46 years. There, they raised their two beloved children, Amanda and Mathew.

Diana had a rewarding and impactful career working with children with exceptionalities and their families. Helping others was her passion and calling. She dedicated her life to making the world a little easier and a lot brighter for those who needed it most.

Diana found deep joy in nature and adventure — she loved the mountains, gardening, camping, and motorcycling. Traveling was another passion that brought her both peace and excitement.

She was incredibly gifted, with a creative spirit that showed in everything she touched — from her love of cooking/baking, sewing, and crafting to the remarkable skill she developed later in life for pyrography (wood burning). Her handcrafted works are not just beautiful — they are lasting reflections of her heart and soul.

Diana will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, confidence, and unwavering strength. She had a way of making people feel seen, understood, and loved. Her warmth and positivity were a light in the lives of everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Lan Gilbert; her daughter Amanda (Shain); and her treasured granddaughters, Taylor and Jesse. She is also survived by her mother, Sylvia; her brothers, Derek (Tamalin) and Darren (Marcea); her brothers-in-law Gai (Eadie), Roi (Carol) and sister-in-law Lynn and extended family. Diana was predeceased by her father, Jim Andrew, and her beautiful son, Mathew Gilbert.

A Funeral Service will be held for Diana at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at the Parkland Chapel (14540 Parkland Blvd. SE, Calgary) on Wednesday August 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with a public visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. 

A Graveside Service will take place at Mountain View Memorial Gardens (1605 100 Street SE, Calgary) immediately following the Church Service.

For those who are unable to attend the Funeral Service in person, a livestream link will be posted here prior to the service.

If desired, Memorial Donations can be made in memory of Diana Gilbert to Intercare Chinook Hospice or Canadian Mental Health Association organizations close to her heart.