Grant Gilbertson - In Loving Memory

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Grant Gilbertson, age 18.

Bright, articulate, passionate about life, not wasting a moment, Grant had an infectious smile, quick wit, a wonderful sense of humor, a prankster.  Although much has been made of his Hockey accomplishments, Grant was so much more, family and friends first. He loved the outdoors, to fish, go hiking with his Mom and dog Luna. He and his brother were best friends devoted to each other, together finding new adventure with friends and family, Snowboarding, Skim Boarding, Golf, you name it and he was up for it with a consistent I can do it attitude. He had met his girlfriend who was as keen and able to match his energy, eager to join in on the adventures, they were very compatible.

Grant had a strong moral compass, he had exceptionally strong opinions of right and wrong, in his mind it was honesty, fairness, effort, and commitment, his test of character. You would be quick to learn if you failed to measure up to his standards. Grant grew up in Sooke, attended Edward Milne Community High School, achieving recognition as an outstanding athlete. He was the recipient of many achievement awards, scholastic and athletic, some of the athletic performance records he set still stand.  Grant was actively involved in the school’s hockey academy program and maintained involvement as a volunteer after graduation in 2020. Grant graduated a year early, as he did not want school to interfere with his life plan. 

Grant started playing hockey at the age of 5, a member of Sooke Minor Hockey until moving onto the Midget (15 -17 yrs of age) Tier 1 team, with the Juan De Fuca Minor Hockey Association. He completed two years with the Juan de Fuca Grizzlies before signing with the Peninsula Panthers, VIJHL Jr B team fall of 2020.  He blossomed into one of the team's top offensive players this season.  He was a popular player, well liked, respected by teammates and opponents.  

Grant was a loving son, a brother, and grandson. He will be missed dearly by his mother Darcie Colegrave, brother Garett Gilbertson, father Ken Gilbertson, Grandfather Donald Colegrave, his uncles, aunts, cousins, his many friends, and teammates. 

We are very grateful for the overwhelming support from family, friends, the Peninsula Panthers organization , VIJHL, Juan De Fuca Minor Hockey and Sooke Minor Hockey Associations and the close knit Hockey community we are blessed to be part of. It is a sincere compliment to Grant, the affection and respect so many people have expressed, truly he will be missed. We could not have asked for, nor planned, a more fitting Tribute and Service for Grant than held Jan 7 at the Panorama Recreation Centre, our heartfelt thanks to the Peninsula Panthers organization.

Due to current circumstance, at the request of family, no further Memorial or Funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Go Fund Me link below:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/we-have-lost-a-loved-one?qid=b567bd15dd6bcbb2605c8839d9dfae6f

Condolences from family and friends