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It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of David “Dave” Gibson of Ripley, a beloved husband father, grandfather and friend, on December 18, 2024 at Huron Shores Hospice. Dave is 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 9 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, 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. Dave 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 neighborhood children in math, coaching local baseball for over 20 years, and mentoring Boy Scouts.
Dave was a man of deep faith and service. He held leadership roles as an elder at Colbourne 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, where he served as vice president, helping to protect and preserve the natural world he so cherished.
With a dry sense of humor, a patient heart, and a knack for building anything from hockey rinks to treehouses, 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 rivaled 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 Dave's life will be held at a later date (sometime in the spring), where we will honor the incredible man, he was and the profound impact he made on our lives. 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 MacKenzie & McCreath Funeral Home, Lucknow. Judy Zarubick officiated and Karen Martyn was organist.
Interment at Greenhill Cemetery, Lucknow.
Condolences and donations online at mackenzieandmccreath.com .
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Our deepest sympathy to all on the passing of Dave. He will be greatly missed by all.
Message from Tryntje Eisen2024-12-24 13:16:13
Sending you a big hug, Valerie, on the passing of your dear husband Dave.
Message from Joan pollard 2024-12-22 20:16:09
Our deepest condolences Val , family and all the Gibson family.. I’m so sorry Dave has had such a struggle ..always such a quiet gentle man who will be greatly missed ..thinking of you all
Message from Laurie Gallant2024-12-22 19:06:54
Valerie , our condolences on the passing of David.
I can’t agree with Shiela Collin’s more - another Amberley, Lucknow high school chum gone. Sooo very sorry to read this obituary.
Sending condolences to David’s family and the Gibson family.
Thinking of you all as you go through this very difficult time! I have nothing but good memories of Dave and I treasure those!
Message from Coralyn Morrison2024-12-20 19:38:29
Barry and I send our deepest sympathies to you and the entire family. Dave was a great husband and father and grandfather. That's the best legacy of all.
Oh my, another Amberley-ite gone. I knew Dave and the Gibson family for most of my life. Please accept my sincere sympathy. May your memories of the life you shared be a comfort to you.
Message from Phyllis Scott2024-12-20 13:57:33
Sincere condolences to Valerie and family and all the Gibson families on Dave’s passing. Thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Phyllis