Obituary – David Gibson

DAVID GIBSON

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of David “Dave” Gibson, of Ripley, a beloved husband father, grandfather and friend, on Dec. 18, 2024 at Huron Shores Hospice.
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, 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.
He was born on 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 the 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 private funeral service was held at MacKenzie & McCreath Funeral Home in Lucknow. Judy Zarubick officiated and Karen Martyn was organist.
Interment Greenhill Cemetery, Lucknow.
Condolences and donations may be made online at mackenzieandmccreath.com.
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, the 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.

Obituary – David Gibson was last modified: December 30th, 2024 by Dianna Martell