Wilbert was the son John and Cecilia Ortmeier. He was born in 1929 and entered the service in January of 1951. He served in the Korean War with the 21st Infantry Regiment of the 24th Division. Wilbert was discharged from active duty in October of 1952. 

Wilbert married Margaret Klitz on December 28, 1960. He had two children Jane and Mark. Jane married Dan Stratmann and they had four children; Justin, Stefanie, Bethany and Melanie. Mark married Insun Turner and raised their daughter Mary Ann. Wilbert has several great grand children. 

Wilbert continues to live on his farm north of Snyder.