Obituary of Gilbert H. Rotach

Gilbert Rotach passed away unexpectedly, on Friday July, 9th 2021 at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center. Gil was born in Utica NY, on December 13th, 1941, a son of the late John and Phyllis Rotach. He was a graduate of UFA and was the devoted husband of Carol Rotach for the past 59 years. Gil and Carol raised two beautiful daughters, Lynn and Cheryl, in their home in New Hartford, NY. He owned and operated the Rotary Gas Station, widely known as Gil's Service Station for many years. He also used his artistic abilities for employment by opening the Suburban Sign Shop, creating letterings, paintings and graphics for many local businesses. Gil enjoyed his life to the fullest in his early years. He had countless friends, employees and acquaintances throughout his life. He enjoyed snowmobiling, boating on the St. Lawrence, camping on Cedar Island and water-skiing like a pro. His family was extremely important to him. He loved spending time with them playing cards, dancing during parties and sitting by a fire, telling stories that always left everyone in stitches. He was an avid bowler, played the guitar and loved to serenade anyone who would listen with his smooth as silk, tenor voice. He was also a known patron to many local establishments where he often tried, but could never quite keep up with his wife on the pool table or dart board. He cherished all pets, with a deep love for wildlife and had a special place in his heart for his cats and the birds outside of the window. Gil was a unique individual, often described by many as “quite a character.” If you met him, you never forgot him. Gilbert is survived by his loving wife, Carol Rotach, his brother John Rotach and wife Kay Rotach of Delaware. His daughters Lynn and Cheryl and their husbands, Kevin Brooks and Rick Sylvester. His four grandchildren, Matthew Sylvester and fiancé Katie Barr, Robin and husband Robert Taylor, Mallory and husband Zack Hall, Sarah and husband David Wheeler. Eleven great grandchildren, many brother and sister-in-laws and countless nieces, nephews and loving friends. In lieu of calling hours, a small service will be held at Westmoreland Cemetery, on Stone road in Westmoreland, NY, Tuesday July 13th at noon. Anyone wishing to attend is welcome.