Gilbert Royer Jr. served his country after graduating from Industry, IL high school and joined the United States Navy. After his service, he returned to Illinois, where he became a painter by trade.

In 1960, Gilbert began his successful career at Arizona State University in the painting department, after painting the home of Ms. Grady Gammage (named after Gammage Auditorium), she inspired him to go to work for the University, where he retired as a paint department supervisor after 25 years.

Gil enjoyed sports tremendously, especially ASU sports and had season tickets for ASU football and sat in the same seats for 44 years.

He is survived by his 2 sons, a grandson and a great grandson.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Mary Sue Royer, parents Gilbert and Genevieve Royer, two brothers and a sister.