Gilbert J. Calta, 83, of Valley City passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 21, 2021.

Gilbert was born October 27, 1937 in Cleveland to the late Gilbert E. and Madeline (Borling) Calta. His family moved to Valley City in 1950 and Gil graduated from Liverpool High School in 1955. He then joined the U.S. Army and served 3 years. When he was discharged, he purchased a new Mercedes Benz from the factory in Germany and brought it home claiming to own the first Mercedes in Medina...

Gilbert J. Calta, 83, of Valley City passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 21, 2021.

Gilbert was born October 27, 1937 in Cleveland to the late Gilbert E. and Madeline (Borling) Calta. His family moved to Valley City in 1950 and Gil graduated from Liverpool High School in 1955. He then joined the U.S. Army and served 3 years. When he was discharged, he purchased a new Mercedes Benz from the factory in Germany and brought it home claiming to own the first Mercedes in Medina County

Gilbert was a banker for 25 years, starting at Medina County Bank and serving at branches in Lodi, Valley City and Medina.

Gil and his wife Linda, along with their friends Ray and Jean Kemp, started Kemp/Calta Antiques in Valley City in 1965. Then in 1971, Gil and Linda founded Hill Haven Farm and Greenhouse, Valley City, which is celebrating its 50th year in business this year.

Gilbert was very active in his community. He was a charter member of the Valley City Chamber of Commerce, serving as president in 1969 and earning person of the year in 1995.  One of his achievements included working on the committee for the development of the Liverpool Industrial Park and he had worked many years at the Valley City Frog Jump. He was also a member of the Valley City Lions Club and the Valley City Historical Society.

Gil started raising sheep at the young age of 14 years old which has continued to the present day on his farm.

He will be greatly missed by his family and numerous friends.

Gilbert is survived by his son, Christopher (Dianne) Calta, grandsons, Derrek and Brad, and a sister, Elizabeth (Dean) Duplaga. Brothers-in-laws, Donald (Sandy) and Robert (Sharon) Christian.

Preceded in death by his wife Linda (nee Christian) Calta, to whom he was married for 53 years, a sister, Linda (Arthur) Weigel.

Friends and family are invited to a Gathering from 10:00-11:00 AM on Friday, February 26, 2021 at St. Martin of Tours Gathering area. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00AM. Burial in St. Martin Church Cemetery. Facial Masks and Social Distancing is required.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to the St. Martin Church Building Fund.

The Bauer Funeral Home, Valley City has the honor of serving the Calta family.