Robert Maurice Gilks was born in Ludlow, New Brunswick, the fourth of ten siblings. He was raised in Blissfield and, to this day, still resides there.

Robert graduated from the Upper Miramichi Regional High School in Boiestown. 

In 1979, Robert married his wife, Michele (Morehouse), and they became the proud parents of their son Evan in 1983.  Evan is a lieutenant with the Fredericton Fire Department.

When his son was younger, Robert started volunteering by coaching youth sports including softball and darts.  Currently, Robert is an active volunteer for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 23, Doaktown Curling Club, and The Old Mill Pond Golf Course just to name a few.  Formerly, he was a board member of the Atlantic Salmon Museum where he volunteered countless hours.

Robert retired in 2021 after nearly 30 as a Conservation Officer for the Department of Natural Resources and later the Department of Public Safety.

In his retirement, Robert has focused on volunteering, working his woodlots, sawmill, and firewood processor – both a joint venture with his son.

As a councillor, Robert wants to encourage all areas of the community to come together as a whole to work toward the betterment of the village.