Gilbert M. Bertelson (75) completed his mortal journey Thursday morning, December 7, 2017 after a brief but sudden illness. He was born in Provo, UT on August 9, 1942 to Bryce and Luzon (Fjeldsted) Bertelson. He attended Granite High School, the University of Utah, and completed an LDS mission in California. He served for 24 years as a pilot in the US Air Force flying the T-37, T-38, F-111, and SR-71. He loved flying and aviation, he loved America, and he was very proud of his time in her service. This love lasted throughout his life as he was a popular speaker at events around the country - willingly sharing his supersonic facts, entertaining stories, and spiritual analogies to uplift and inspire everyone from youth groups to veteran's organizations. His life in the military took him all over the world, living in Thailand, Okinawa, Hawaii, and England (and many others) but he returned to his roots in Utah with his final Air Force assignment being the commander of the ROTC at BYU. After retiring from the Air Force, he remained at BYU for another 15 years as the director of the EMBA program in the Marriott School of Management. His greatest treasures were his family (especially his grandchildren), his faith, and his country. He was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and enjoyed serving in numerous capacities throughout his life. His favorite pastimes were fishing, golfing, and serving in the Provo LDS temple. His commanding personality, storytelling, quick wit, and passion for life will be missed by all who knew him. He made friends everywhere he went and his passing has left a void that will not soon be filled. Gil is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Loye (Draayer), their daughters Cari, Marci (Aaron) Judkins, Brandi (Darin) Fielding, and Jaimi (Jeremy) Hyde, their 10 grandchildren, step brothers Dick (Diane) Ottosen, and Doug (Lesley) Ottosen, and step sister Gayle (Doug) Engh. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 16th at 11:00 am in the Grandview 10th Ward chapel 1600 N 1880 W, Provo, UT. Viewings will be Friday 6-8pm and Sat 9:30-10:30am at the church. Burial will be in the Orem City Cemetery. Condolences may be offered to the family online at WalkerSanderson.com.