Gilbert R. Truax, 85, of Punta Gorda Isles, Fla., passed away Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013.

He was born to Ray and Iva Truax in Alpena, Mich., Jan. 5, 1928.

Gilbert served our country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, from 1944 to 1946, aboard the USS Oklahoma at the age of 16. Next, Gilbert proceeded to have a rewarding career with the Detroit Police Department, beginning in 1949, until the point when he retired after 27 years of service from his position as District Commander. He then moved his family to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where he assumed the position of Director of Public Safety for the City of Escanaba, Mich. After his service in law enforcement, Gilbert pursued his passion of captaining boats out of both Door County, Wis., and in Punta Gorda Isles, where he and his wife Anne spent many happy years together.

Gilbert is survived by his five children; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

The family will have a private burial at sea. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Great Lakes Caring Hospice at www.GreatLakesCaring.com. Share memories at www.temrowskifamilyfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are by Temrowski Damily Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Fenton, Mich.