It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mr. John Joseph Gibos of Blairmore, Alberta. John passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on January 1, 2015 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre at the age of 87 years.
John was born on April 21, 1927 in Blairmore to Joseph and Mary Gibos. He was raised with an appreciation for others, our community, faith in God and the love of family. He was soft-spoken and gentle man with a hard work ethic and compassionate nature. John won the affection of a beautiful and kind young lady, Edna Joan Hines, and on May 23, 1950, they pledged their love in holy matrimony and were blessed with a family of their own.
John’s dedication to this community and his family has always been inspirational. He worked for the Town to support his family and was promoted to the position of Superintendent after the amalgamation of the Crowsnest Pass. He was highly regarded and respected by his peers for his ability, knowledge and gentle manner.
Throughout his years, John enjoyed hunting and fishing, gardening, painting and woodcraft, smoking a fine cigar on a quiet evening and walking his dogs around the town. He was a volunteer firefighter, donated much of his time to the Nippon Train Park next to his home and, along with his dog Ernie, conducted the miniature train as it’s capable engineer for the tiny children. His passions and talents were many but he truly enjoyed time spent with his family. He was always interested in their triumphs and their challenges. He never missed anyone’s birthday and was the constant and dependable patriarch whom we all depended on. Although his passing is sheer heartache for us all, we take comfort in knowing that he is walking hand in hand with his beloved Edna in our Lord’s garden.
He is survived by his devoted children, Richard (Faye) Gibos of Blairmore, Pat (Bob) Young of Lethbridge, Judy (Walter) Farfus of Blairmore, Mary (Gerald) Bull of Beaverlodge and John (Linda) Gibos of Fort St. John; twelve grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; his sisters, Irene and Helen Gibos; as well as his extended family and numerous friends.
He was predeceased by his wife, Edna Joan Gibos; his parents, Joseph and Mary Gibos; his brothers, Tom and Joe Gibos; and his sisters, Millie, Annie, Francine and Mary.
The Prayer Service was held on Monday, January 5, 2015 at 7:00 pm at the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Blairmore with Deacon Renso Castellarin officiating.
The Funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at 11:00 am at the Catholic Church with Fr. Ben Marino as Celebrant. Cremation followed at Fantin's Funeral Chapel’s private crematorium.
Donations in memory of the late John Gibos would be gratefully accepted towards the Canadian Diabetes Association, 204, 2323-32 Ave, NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6Z3. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.