Gilbert Francis Clayton
Gilbert Clayton - leaving a legacy deeper than the many wells he drilled.
Gilbert Clayton drilled hundreds of water wells throughout the Pacific Northwest during his many decades of ownership and operation of Gilbert Clayton Well Drilling, yet the most important depth reached by this wonderful man is the legacy of his family. Gilbert was united face to face with Jesus on Friday, March 1 at the age of 91.
Gilbert F. Clayton was born in Klickitat, WA to Bert and Grace Clayton on July 18, 1932. From an early age, Gilbert helped Bert with his business, Bert Clayton and Son Well Drilling. After graduating with The Dalles High School class of 1950, Gilbert continued working with his father and then served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1952-1954, followed by the U.S. Navy in Guam and aboard U.S. Aircraft Carrier Oriskany from 1954-1956. Gilbert also attended Oregon State University in Corvallis, launching a long line of Oregon State alumni in his family.
Gilbert and his lifelong bride, Evelyn J. Aas, were married in November 1957 in The Dalles at Faith Lutheran Church. At the 50th anniversary celebration for Faith Lutheran, Gilbert & Evelyn were recognised as the second couple to marry at this church. This was their active home for worship and fellowship for 65 years, and by the grace of God, has allowed the roots of Christ’s love and salvation to permeate many generations of the Clayton family tree. Of all aspects of legacy, there is none more important than this.
Gilbert and Evelyn had three sons; Craig, Dan, and Kent, born in 1958, 1961, and 1966. In 1959, Gilbert and Evelyn purchased their home and cherry orchard on Lambert Street where they lived until moving to The Springs at Mill Creek in February 2023.
In the 1960's, Gilbert started his own well and pump business, Gilbert Clayton Well Drilling, and retired in 2010. He served many locals for several years with consultation after his retirement, even up until 2023.
Gilbert and Evelyn enjoyed hosting their extended family at their beautiful property in The Dalles, traveling, and attending family reunions in Minnesota and Missouri. A trip to the Northeast to watch the autumn leaves turn and a special cruise to Alaska were a few of their traveling highlights.
Gilbert is survived by his wife of 66 years, the wonderful Evelyn Clayton, as well as sons Craig and Kari Clayton, Dan Clayton, and Kent & Debbie Clayton. Gilbert's most cherished role was as a Grandfather and Great Grandfather. The orchard tractor was of special interest as several generations learned to drive it. Rootbeer floats were always a tradition when spending time together as a family. Many, many gallons of root beer and ice cream have been consumed over the years in the fantastic orange-countered kitchen at the Lambert Street home.
Gilbert is survived by grandchildren Lindy & Matt Mongenel with children Braxton & Enzo, Neil & Erin Clayton with children Natalie, Sean, and Samuel, Kenna, Kyle, Melissa, and Austin Clayton, Benjamin Chapman, and Keith & Crystal with children Cameron, Joaquin, Jackson, Zoe, and Sadie Grace. In all, Gilbert is survived by 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Gilbert was predeceased by an infant daughter, Jan Marie, as well as parents Bert and Grace Clayton and sisters Margaret Bacon, Cassa Logan and Pat Smith.
The following Bible verse was found in Gilbert's wallet:
For it is by grace you have been saved, it is the gift of God- not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Eph 2:8-10
By Grace indeed! We cannot wait to see you in Heaven someday, Husband, Dad, Grandpa, & Great Grandpa Gilbert. We all always knew we were loved by you, and you were very loved by all of us. We are eternally grateful (truly, eternally) for the great legacy you left through each of us.
Memorial service will take place at
Faith Lutheran Church
2810 W 10th St
May 25, 2024 @2pm
Reception to follow.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.