Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere lived a life shaped by courage, responsibility, and quiet care for family. Many people know his name because of his connection to Cher, but his story is much bigger than fame. He was a World War II pilot, a trained engineer, a businessman, and a man who stepped into a father role when it mattered most. His life shows strength in war, discipline in work, and kindness at home.
Quick Bio Table
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere |
| Birth Date | June 29, 1923 |
| Birthplace | Irvington, New Jersey, USA |
| Parents | Albert J. LaPiere, Tillie Hartmann |
| Military Service | U.S. Army Air Corps |
| War | World War II |
| Role | B-24 Bombardier |
| Missions | 35 Combat Missions |
| Education | Petroleum Engineering |
| Spouse | Georgia Holt, Beverly Foster |
| Children | Cher (adopted), Georganne LaPiere |
| Death | February 7, 2012 |
Early Life and Family Roots
Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere was born on June 29, 1923, in Irvington, New Jersey, United States. He grew up during a hard time in American history, just before the Great Depression. His parents were Albert J. LaPiere and Tillie Hartmann LaPiere, who taught him strong values like honesty, effort, and respect.
As a child, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere was active and focused. He joined the Boy Scouts of America and reached the high rank of Eagle Scout. This showed leadership, discipline, and service from a young age. These early lessons later shaped how he faced war, work, and family life.
Education and Early Ambitions
After finishing high school in Newark, New Jersey, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere went to the University of Missouri School of Mines in Rolla. He studied petroleum engineering, a demanding subject that required strong math and problem-solving skills.
While in college, he joined the Sigma Pi fraternity and later became its president. This role helped him learn teamwork and leadership. His education was interrupted by world events, but his focus on learning never stopped.
Service in World War II
When World War II began, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere joined the U.S. Army Air Corps. He trained as a bombardier and flew on B-24 Liberator bombers. His missions took place in the Western Pacific, one of the most dangerous air combat areas.
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He completed 35 combat missions, each one risking his life. On one mission, his plane was badly damaged, and he had to ditch the aircraft into the ocean. He survived, showing calm thinking under pressure. His military service defined him as brave but humble.
Life After the War
After the war ended, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere returned to college and finished his engineering degree. Like many veterans, he wanted stability and purpose after years of danger. He began working in the oil and gas industry, starting with Cities Service Oil Company.
His work required careful evaluation of oil fields and energy projects. Over time, he built a strong reputation as a skilled professional. His ability to plan, analyze, and manage risk came from both education and military experience.
Career in Finance and Business
Later, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere moved into banking and finance. He worked for Chase Bank in New York, focusing on oil and gas investments. He later joined W. E. Hutton & Co. on Wall Street, where he learned high-level financial operations.
Eventually, he became a Vice President at Union Bank of California, leading its oil and gas division. After years in large companies, he chose independence and worked as a private oil and gas consultant, helping businesses grow safely.
Marriage to Georgia Holt
In 1962, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere married Georgia Holt, a singer and actress. She was the mother of Cher, whose real name is Cherilyn Sarkisian. At that time, Cher was still a child, growing up in an unstable environment.
This marriage changed the lives of everyone involved. Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere stepped into the role of a father, not by blood, but by choice and care. He brought structure and security to the family.
Adoption and Fatherhood
During the marriage, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere legally adopted Cher and her younger sister Georganne. After adoption, they used the last name LaPiere, and Georganne LaPiere became known by that name publicly.
This act gave the girls stability and identity. He supported Cher’s education and enrolled her in a private school, believing strongly in learning and discipline. His influence helped shape her early confidence and independence.
Divorce but Lasting Influence
The marriage between Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere and Georgia Holt ended in 1964. Even after the divorce, his role as a stepfather did not disappear from Cher’s life story.
Cher has spoken about the many challenges of her childhood, but his presence during key years gave her structure. His steady approach stood in contrast to the chaos she often experienced elsewhere.
Later Marriage and Personal Life
After the divorce, Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere married Beverly Lorraine Foster LaPiere. Their marriage lasted 34 years, until her death in 1997. This long partnership showed his loyalty and deep commitment.
They lived in Oklahoma City, where he became part of the local community. He joined the Quail Creek Golf and Country Club and enjoyed travel, quiet routines, and time with friends.
Character and Values
People who knew Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere described him as calm, thoughtful, and kind. He did not seek attention, even though his life included war, business success, and celebrity connections.
He valued honesty, responsibility, and effort. These values guided his actions as a pilot, engineer, banker, husband, and father. His strength was quiet but steady.
Relationship to Cher’s Success
Although Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere was not part of Cher’s adult career, his early support mattered. Stability during childhood often shapes confidence later in life.
By providing a safe home, education, and structure, he helped Cher during a critical period. This support played a role in helping her become strong enough to face the entertainment world.
Death and Legacy
Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere passed away on February 7, 2012, at the age of 88, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was laid to rest at Rose Hill Burial Park.
His legacy is not built on fame but on service, care, and responsibility. He is remembered as a war hero, a skilled professional, and a man who stepped up when family needed him most.
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Why His Story Matters
The life of Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere reminds us that important people are not always in the spotlight. Many lives of strength happen quietly, behind the scenes.
He showed that courage is not only found in battle but also in daily choices—raising children, supporting family, and living with integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who was Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere?
He was a World War II pilot, engineer, businessman, and Cher’s stepfather.
Q2: Did he adopt Cher?
Yes, he legally adopted Cher and her sister Georganne.
Q3: What war did he serve in?
He served in World War II as a bomber crew member.
Q4: What was his profession after the war?
He worked in oil, gas, banking, and financial consulting.
Q5: Where did he die?
He passed away in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
