Dr. Gilbert Jozef Draulans' Obituary
Dr. Gilbert Jozef Draulans, 80, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on June 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 11, 1946, in Wiekevorst, Belgium, to the late Jozef and Maria Draulans.
Dr. Draulans grew up in Belgium and pursued his passion for medicine at the esteemed Leuven University, where he earned his medical degree. He completed a two-year surgical residency in Brugge, Belgium, before continuing his medical journey in the United States. In 1975, he moved to Alabama, where he specialized in obstetrics and gynecology in Birmingham.
In 1979, Dr. Draulans and his family relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, where he established a private OB-GYN practice. For many years, he served the community with compassion, dedication, and expertise, caring for generations of families. Prior to his retirement, he continued his work with Lee Health, where he remained a respected and trusted physician.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Draulans enjoyed painting, gardening, and landscaping. He devoted time and care to his home, creating beautiful surroundings that reflected his creativity and brought enjoyment to family and friends. He will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor and ability to make others laugh, always having a joke or funny remark ready to share.
He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 57 years, Natalie (Verelst) Draulans; sons, Sebastian (Michele) and Dimitri (Julie); brother, Johan (Monique); sisters, Lutgarde Lipschultz and Renilde (Koen) Vandelanotte; grandchildren, Hudson, Nathan, Kristin, and Mason; and many nieces and nephews.
All services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to VITAS Community Connection, whose compassionate home hospice care provided comfort and support for the family.
Dr. Draulans will be remembered for his dedication to his patients, his artistic spirit, and his deep love for his family.
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