Caribou, Maine - Gilbert Freeman Hitchcock, 89, went to be with the Lord on September 23, 2025. Born on November 10, 1935, in Presque Isle, Maine, son of John F. and Eva M. (Theriault) Hitchcock.

Gilbert retired after 40 years of service for Maine Public Service Co., at the Caribou Steam Plant. He also served his country in the Army National Guard for ten years. This year he and Alma (Drake) celebrated 65 years of marriage. Gilbert faithfully served in many ministries of the Caribou United Baptist Church. A special mission for 40 years was maintenance projects at Baptist Park in Mapleton. He had a true servant's heart - whether he was lending a hand to a neighbor, or helping with the maintenance of the Green Ridge Cemetery. He was a lifelong outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. He felt at home in the woods and on the trails, and could talk with just about anyone - whether you were an old friend or stranger, you were treated like family. He also enjoyed his time as a dedicated member of the Caribou Historical Society and the Aroostook County Genealogical Society, preserving the stories and roots of the region he loved so dearly. He will be remembered for his laugh, his stories, his steady presence, and the way he made people feel seen and cared for.

Gilbert is survived by his wife, Alma; his children, Karen (Robbie) Smith, David (Cheri) Hitchcock, Daniel (Misty) Hitchcock, and Darryl Hitchcock. Gilbert was a delighted grandfather of Michael, Nicole, Nate, Andrew, Dalton, Sommer, Danika, Allison, Micah, Wesley; and 12 great-grandchildren, often found right in the middle of their games, laughing and playing. He also leaves behind his siblings, Sylvia (Richard) Gagnon, James (Joyce) Hitchcock, Joanna Staples; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. A special thank you to the staff at Rising Hill Assisted Living in Limestone for their loving care of "Gilly" for the past 14 months.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. at United Baptist Church in Caribou, followed by a celebration of life service. Refreshments and fellowship to follow the service in the Chapel. Interment will be at Green Ridge Cemetery. Memorials may be made in his honor to Caribou United Baptist Church or Baptist Park, P.O. Box 498, Mapleton, ME 04757. Arrangements in care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, 30 Church St., Presque Isle, ME 04769.