Stephen Leo Gilbert

Stephen Leo Gilbert, 64, of Keene, N.H., passed away at home on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, surrounded by his family following a lengthy illness. Born Dec. 10, 1960, in Worcester, Mass., Stephen was the son of Leo Albert and Carol Ann Gilbert (Palevicus). He grew up in North Brookfield, Mass., where he lived until he graduated from North Adams State College in 1982. That summer, during a family trip to Cape Cod, he met and asked his Bass River tour boat guide out on a date to miniature golf. Steve and Sara were married four years later, on Oct. 25, 1986, in Spencer, Mass. One year later, their first daughter, Lauren Ann, was born, followed by Allison Carol in 1991. Steve began his journalism career immediately upon graduation from college and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. In 1987, he was hired by The Keene Sentinel, where he was able to combine two of his greatest passions, sports and journalism. He covered countless high school and college games in the area, often with Lauren in tow, before starting his weekly Slice of Life column, and continued with the paper until May 2025. His writing and editing garnered numerous awards throughout his career. He enjoyed both new adventures and familiar destinations. He traveled south to Haiti and Peru, east to Europe, and west to San Francisco. He eagerly anticipated his trips with extended family to Cape Cod each summer and the many fun-filled Disney World vacations taken. In 2016, he began distance running, a hobby he shared with his daughter Allie, and in October 2024, he completed his first marathon with her. Steve could be found in the bleachers on the third base line at Keene SwampBats games in the summer, and skiing at Okemo in the winter. In 2019, he became “Gramps,” a title that he cherished. Over the past six years, he spent many weeks on the West Coast visiting his beloved grandson. In 2024, his role expanded with the birth of his first granddaughter in Dover, N.H. Despite his cancer diagnosis 18 months ago, Steve was able to do many of the things he loved — traveling, skiing, hiking, watching baseball, and visiting with his beloved daughters and grandchildren. In August 2024, Sara surprised him with a vow renewal ceremony in San Francisco, where they honeymooned 38 years before. With the Golden Gate Bridge in the background, they reaffirmed their love and commitment to each other for eternity. He left this world knowing that he was deeply loved. He is survived by his wife, Sara; daughters Lauren and Allison; grandchildren Maximus and Mackenzie; sister Deborah Sullivan (spouse Michael) of Cromwell, Conn.; brother John Gilbert (spouse Christine) of Spencer, Mass.; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, father, and grandparents, Ann (Piktelis) and Stephen Palevicus, with whom he spent his childhood forming some of his lasting interests: the ocean, trains and, of course, baseball. Steve had a smile and a conversation for everyone. Humble, kind, appreciated and loved, he is dearly missed by his family and the community. A Celebration of Life will be held at Cheshire Family Funeral Home in Keene on Thursday, July 24, at 3 p.m. Preceding the service, friends and family are invited to the calling hours from 1 to 3 p.m. Later Thursday, at 6:15 p.m., the Keene SwampBats will recognize Steve’s love for and contributions to area baseball with a brief ceremony before the team’s game at Alumni Field. Friends are invited. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Keene State College’s journalism program can be made by visiting giving.keene.edu or by mailing a check to: Keene State College, Advancement Services, 229 Main St., Keene, NH 03435-2701. The family expresses deep gratitude and appreciation for the kindness and support shown during this difficult time. Services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.

Tributes

Stephen Leo Gilbert

December 10, 1960 - July 15, 2025