Gilbert J. Ely, age 88, of 225 Deep Creek Road, Hegins, passed away Thursday, February 3, 2011 at his home. He was born on Sunday, May 14, 1922, in Hegins Twp, PA, a son of the late William and Mary (Neumeister) Ely. He served in the US Navy during World War II. He was employed as a coal miner, had worked at the former Imperial Homes, and had retired as a machinist for TRW of Harrisburg. He was a member of Friedens Lutheran Church, Hegins. He was also a member of Life Member of American Legion Post 340, Duncannon. the TRW Pioneers of Harrisburg, and a former member of the Chiefs of Police Association of Harrisburg. Gilbert was an avid hunter and fisherman; having made many hunting trips to Colorado and fishing trips to Canada. He was preceded in death by his son Paul W Ely and a daughter Rose Marie Ely. He is survived by his wife Rose (Sabatino) Ely, to whom he was married for 69 years. He is also survived by a son Junior G Ely of Carlisle; a daughter in law Cecilia C Ely of Kulpmont; a granddaughter Jeanette Ely of Carlisle; a grandson Michael Ely of Gratz; six great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at the Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Valley View, on Wednesday, February 9, 2011, at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Warren Egebo officiating. A viewing was held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors was made in Friedens Cemetery, Hegins. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Hegins Area Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 678, Valley View PA 17983. Condolences can be left for the family at www.buffingtonreed.com .