Gilbert Creech

Gilbert Creech just reached a milestone birthday, turning 90 in early April. He preferred to go by Gil, and he lived a long and fulfilled life. Gil was raised in a different generation and there’s no doubt that was obvious from the moment you met him. He was often up front and brash, and rarely sat still for long. He was a tinkerer and happiest when his hands were busy. He cared deeply for his family, his pets, his workshop, and his home. He was proud of what he accomplished in life and has left a legacy of memories behind. Gil passed away in the evening, Saturday April 17, 2021. Gil’s last few months were full of struggle and he persevered with grace and dignity. Gil overcame two Covid diagnoses, but the virus ultimately sped him through the stages of dementia. After losing his beloved wife in January, Gil spent his days being pleasantly confused and retelling stories from his past. To those of us that loved him this was a silver lining and gave us peace knowing he wasn’t suffering. In the end Gil laid down on Saturday and passed peacefully in his sleep. Gil was born on April 2, 1931 in Cumberland, Kentucky. He was adopted by Bentley and Martha Creech. Gil never spoke of it, but he did find himself in the Navy for a short window of time between 1948 and 1950. He eventually found his way to Maryland where he met his beloved wife, Joyce. The pair were married for 65 years and shared a home in Dundalk, Maryland. During their life together they welcomed two children, three grandchildren, and four great grandchildren in to their hearts and home. Gil was a proud member of the Patapsco Masonic Lodge. He was happiest in his woodworking shop, tinkering with new designs or building treasured pieces for his family. He was also a well known gardener who was quite at home with dirt on his hands, down on his knees in the soil tending to the best green beans known to man. Gil was not a man of many words, and he was often misunderstood. If he loved you though, it was so clear in his eyes and actions, you didn’t need the words to know. Gil is preceded most recently in his death by his wife Joyce Creech who passed away just three months ago. He was also preceded in death by his youngest child, Gilbert Joseph Creech, and his favorite dog Mickey. Gil is survived by his daughter, Frances Elaine Czyzewski, his granddaughters, Ashley Zimba, Melissa Czyzewski, and Jessica McClellan, and his great grandchildren, Zachary Zimba, Skylar Bailey, Fallon Zimba, and Aria McClellan. We hope Gil has reunited with his loved ones on the other side, and we know that he will be greatly missed here by those who knew him.

Gilbert Creech

April 2, 1931 - April 17, 2021