DAVID GRAHAM "DAVE" GIBSON

December 18, 2024

David Graham “Dave” Gibson of Ripley, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, died Dec. 18, 2024, at Huron Shores Hospice. He was 76. Survived by his wife Valerie; his loving children, Dan and Trina Gibson and Julie and Joseph Angilella; and his cherished grandchildren, Beverly, Chloe and Macayla. He will also be deeply missed by his extended family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him. Dave came from a large family; he was the youngest of nine children. He is survived by his siblings, Gladys Hamilton, Carolyn (Chris) Brown, George (Pat) Gibson, and Cookie (Paul) Wardel; and brother-in-law, John Crocker. Predeceased by his parents, Esther & Samuel Gibson; siblings, Roy, Ernie, Dorothy Hamilton and Catherine Crocker; sisters-in-law, Mary Gibson, Evelyn (Bill) Splan; and brothers-in-law, Al and Dinnie Hamilton. Dave was a man of unwavering kindness, wisdom, and devotion, leaving behind a legacy that will forever inspire those who knew and loved him. Born April 10, 1948, he spent much of his life in London, where he built a fulfilling career at Fanshawe College, dedicating 33 years to helping students and maintaining equipment. A natural teacher, he extended his knowledge beyond his workplace, tutoring countless neighbourhood children in math, coaching local baseball for more than 20 years, and mentoring Boy Scouts. Dave was a man of deep faith and service. He held leadership roles as an elder at Colborne Street United Church, a manager at Ripley Presbyterian Church, and regularly attended Bervie Church. His passion for community extended to his work with the Pine River Watershed Initiative Network where he served as vice-president, helping to protect and preserve the natural world he so cherished. With a dry sense of humour, a patient heart, and a knack for building anything from hockey rinks to tree-houses, Dave was an engineer of dreams. His hands were never idle, whether renovating homes, crafting bridges, or designing spaces where family and friends could gather. Even in retirement, he stayed active, working as a security guard and courier, continuing to lend his time and talents, wherever needed. Dave's passion for sports was rivalled only by his love for his family. A devoted Toronto fan, he cheered on the Blue Jays, Raptors, and Maple Leafs with steadfast loyalty. A natural athlete himself, he inspired others with his love for the game and his unyielding spirit. Above all, Dave was a family man. His wisdom, rooted in his deep understanding of family history, was a guiding light for his loved ones. Whether reading a book, sharing his vast knowledge, or quietly celebrating the successes of those he helped, Dave's joy came from seeing others thrive. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at the Lucknow Community Centre. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Diabetes Canada, ALS Society, or Huron Shores Hospice. Dave's life was a testament to the power of patience, kindness, and service. While his absence leaves an irreplaceable void, his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and the love he so freely gave. A private funeral service was held at the MacKenzie and McCreath Funeral Home, Lucknow, with Rev. Judy Zarubick officiating and Karen Martyn as organist. Interment, Greenhill Cemetery, Lucknow. Condolences and donations on-line at www.mackenzieandmccreath.com.