Robert Arthur Gilbert

Bob was born in Jamestown, NY. He graduated from Cassadaga High School, and went on to the Cornell School of Hotel Administration, class of 1981. His hotel industry career began at MHM, Richfield, before moving on to an illustrious career as the CEO and President of HSMAI for the next 30 years.

During his tenure, Bob deftly led HSMAI through historic world events that significantly impacted the hospitality industry, including the terrorist attacks on 9/11, the 2008 recession, and the Covid-19 pandemic. In each instance, his leadership ensured that his organization and team emerged stronger than before.

Bob was a forward thinker, committed to evolving his way of business with the changing times. He was a trailblazer in the hospitality industry, expanding the global reach of HSMAI. Bob was a kind, generous, and inclusive leader, who impacted so many individual careers and ultimately the entire hospitality industry.

Above all, he was a man of strong faith. Bob was a servant of the Lord his whole life, always finding ways to help others personally and professionally, and guiding those around him by example to Christ. He developed his faith through church families of Centreville Presbyterian Church (CPC) in Virginia as well as Mill City here in Ft. Collins.

He was also a proud husband, father, and grandfather that cherished times when the whole family could be together. He was our favorite family travel planner, prioritizing finding ways to get the whole gang together.

Bob is survived by wife Kim, children Rob and Sarah Gilbert (grandchildren – AJ, Rylee, Charlotte, and Weston), Kate and Oscar Hernandez (grandchildren – Lorenzo and Mateo), and Laura and Erik Walters. He is survived by brother John Gilbert, and sister Jean and Andy Abbey.

He was preceded in death by parents Howard and Wilma Gilbert and brother Chuck Gilbert.

We were blessed to have 10 weeks to tell Bob how much he was loved and for him to hear from so many friends, colleagues, and family members. Since Bob was able to enjoy conversations and visits from friends from around the world, the family has decided to not hold a formal celebration of life.

Our life is guided by God. We find solace in John 14: 1-3 and hope you do as well:

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to donate to the HSMAI Foundation Century Campaign, in honor of Bob and his extensive impact on the hospitality industry. Learn more about his career and impact:

¯ President and CEO of HSMAI, Bob Gilbert Announces Retirement

¯ HSMAI Perspective: Signing Off, In Gratitude | HSMAI Americas

¯ HSMAI Announces the Passing of President and CEO Bob Gilbert | HSMAI Americas

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