Gilbert J. Montazzoli, 93 years old, of Lewiston, NY, entered into eternal peace on December 20, 2016 at Our Lady of Peace Nursing Care Residence in Lewiston, NY. Born on January 14, 1923 in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Valery) Montazzoli.

Gilbert attended Niagara Falls schools, both Syracuse University and Niagara University. In 1942, Gilbert volunteered in the US Army Air Force at age 17 in support of WWII. He trained at military bases in Atlantic City NJ, Nashville TN, Arlington Field, Laredo TX, Midland, TX, and Westover Massachusetts. Gilbert completed a rigorous training at Midland Texas Army Airfield where he specialized in gunnery, navigation, meteorology, camouflage, and aircraft identification. Graduating from officer school as a 2nd Lieutenant in July 1944, he then stationed at Chatham Field, in Savannah Georgia. Gilbert served in the 15th Army Airforce under the 304th Bomb Wing as a bombardier in the 456th Bombardment Group based in Italy. He and his B-24 Liberator crew became the instruments used by the Allies to carry strategic air offensives to Axis-occupied Europe and Germany. His plane was shot down twice in enemy territory, evaded capture, and received the Distinguished Flying Cross medal.

Following the war, Gilbert was a sales representative with John Hancock Insurance, and enjoyed a 30-year career in sales with Universal-McKinley Liquor Company until his retirement in 1988. He was active in the Niagara Falls YMCA, a long-time member of St. Teresa of the Infant Jesus Parish, and volunteered as Catholic Charities Chairperson. In addition, he was a Committeeman in the Niagara Falls Republican Party, member of the Lewiston Kiwanis Club, and a parishioner of St. Peter Roman Catholic Parish in Lewiston.

Gilbert is survived by five children, Lori (Joseph) Presti of Youngstown, Mark Montazzoli of Buffalo, Lisa (Leonard) Rizzo of Lewiston, Todd (Elizabeth) Montazzoli of Auburn Township, OH, and Lana (Steven) Waters of Geneva, IL, 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and was predeceased by grandson, John "Jack" Montazzoli and sister, Louise (Montazzoli) O'Brian of Houston, TX, and Janelle (Jenss) Montazzoli

There will be no prior visitation. A private Memorial Mass and burial in Riverdale Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family. Our family is grateful for the exceptional caregivers from Our Lady of Peace Nursing Care Residence for their compassion provided to our father. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL 2730 Military Road Niagara Falls, NY. To leave a personal message for the family, Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com and www.niagara-gazette.com/obituaries for online guest register. Donations are gratefully accepted at Our Lady of Peace Recreation Department.