September 11, 1927 – July 18, 2021 Doyle Gilbert of West Hills died peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, just months before his 94th birthday. Doyle had a limitless heart that made everyone feel like the most important person in the world and always gave them their full attention when they needed someone to listen to them. He was kind, generous, and funny.
Doyle was born in Santa Monica, California during the Great Depression, the eldest of two boys. He graduated from Santa Monica High School and joined the Navy shortly before his 18th birthday. He spent most of his 3 years as a sonarman on the destroyer USS Stickell on his last deployment. Upon discharge from the war, he received his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from USC under the GI Bill. He worked his way through the parking of college cars at the Jonathan Beach Club and Bel Air Bay Club, which began his long love affair with cars. After graduating, he made a long career in the insurance industry. He retired in his mid-60s after selling his bond business.
After retiring, he pursued his love for travel and tennis. He often traveled with his family, but also with friends to Europe, North Africa and all over the USA. He played tennis until his mid-eighties, despite the polio he suffered from while serving in the Navy. Nothing stopped him.
He was married to Elza, the love of his life for 61 years, which preceded him in death. They had known each other for many years before they grew up together in Santa Monica. Unfortunately, two years ago he also lost his younger brother Ken “Buba”.
Doyle leaves behind his daughter Shawn and son Kevin, as well as their spouses and grandchildren Sarah, Kristen and Matthew.
Published by Los Angeles Times from December 31, 2021 to January 2, 2022.
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