Gil and his beloved wife of 56 years, Carol Ann (McKenzie) Born, lived a life rich in love, creativity, and deep connection. Carol passed away on July 19, just days after Gil, and together they leave a legacy that will continue to inspire family, friends, colleagues, and students for generations.

Gilbert Charles “Gil” Born died peacefully on July 10, 2026, at the age of 90. His beloved wife of 56 years Carol (McKenzie) Born, died shortly after, on July 19, 2026.

Gil was born on August 17, 1935, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Clifford and Catherine (Schrohenloher) Born. The third of nine children, Gil grew up in the close-knit neighborhood of College Hill, attended St. Clare School and Roger Bacon High School, and from an early age showed extraordinary artistic talent, a keen intellect, and a quiet confidence that would shape the course of his life.

After earning a degree in Industrial Design from the University of Cincinnati, Gil served his country as an officer in the United States Air Force. Upon returning home, he began a professional journey that would touch countless lives and help shape the future of industrial design education. In 1963, he joined the faculty of the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP), where he taught for four decades, including twelve years as chairman of the department of Industrial Design.

Throughout his distinguished career, Gil was admired not only for his expertise and creativity, but for his patience, kindness, and unwavering belief in the potential of every student. Former students have often spoken of Gil as a mentor who changed the trajectory of their lives. He freely shared his knowledge, opened doors of opportunity, and encouraged generations of young designers to pursue excellence while remaining grounded, thoughtful, and generous. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, continuing through the many successful careers of those he taught and mentored.

Alongside his academic career, Gil maintained a successful design and illustration practice for more than fifty years. His work included product design, architectural renderings, and community planning projects. A gifted artist with an exceptional eye for beauty and detail, he approached every project with imagination, discipline, and humility. Whether creating, teaching, or mentoring, Gil never sought recognition for himself. He simply loved the work and the people around him.

Gil and Carol built a beautiful life together based on deep devotion and mutual respect. Among their shared interests were the arts, travel abroad, the Cincinnati Reds, and the environment. At home in Clifton, Gil’s landscape design transformed their backyard into a sanctuary for local wildlife, reflecting their appreciation for nature’s beauty.

Gil was preceded in death by siblings Barbara (late George) Limke, Clifford (Becky) Born, Lori (late Jim) Schwartz, and Richard “Rick” Born. He is survived by Sister Janet Born, OSF, Nancy (Hank) Koch, Gerry (Kathy) Born, Gene (Maureen) Born, and many nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Gil and Carol, all are invited to a memorial program and casual luncheon to be held on Friday, August 14 at 12noon at Clovernook Country Club, 2035 W. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati 45239. The burial will take place preceding this event, at Spring Grove Cemetery at 11am.

Gil held an unparalleled dedication to the practice of industrial design, and in 2002 he and Carol established an endowment to create “The Industrial Design Research Fund” through the UC Foundation. Its stated goals were to encourage and support industrial design research initiatives and promote the long-term capital support of the Industrial Design program at DAAP. The fund has flourished and has firmly established Gil’s lasting legacy there.

More recently, in recognition of Gil’s lifelong dedication to education and mentorship, Gil and Carol established the Gil and Carol Born Scholarship Fund for DAAP to lend financial support to students in the college. With these scholarships, Gil’s passion for learning, creativity, and helping others will continue in the dreams and accomplishments of students yet to come. https://moversmakers.org/2025/11/04/carol-born-gil-born-create-scholarships-for-local-students/

Donations in Gil’s honor are appreciated. Information on how to donate to the scholarship fund can be found here:  https://cincinnatischolarshipfoundation.org/make-a-donation/