Mahlon "Bob" Gibbons Obituary (1931 - 2023)

MahIon William Gibbons known as Bob to many was born December 19, 1931 on his grandmother's kitchen table, and passed away on November 27, 2023 at Cottonwood Creek Senior Living with his much loved family by his side. Bob was only 3 pounds at birth, but grew strong and healthy and enjoyed a long and happy life. He attended schools in Murray, Utah; graduated from Murray high school. Following graduation Bob served honorably in the U.S Navy on the USS Pittsburgh from 1951 to 1955, and the USS Toledo from 1955 to 1959 during the Korean War. While serving in the Navy, Bob married Louise Lickley on August 18, 1957 in Twin Falls, Idaho. Following their wedding, the newlyweds were stationed in Long Beach, California until the birth of their first daughter Nanette. The small adventurous family moved to Salt Lake City and Bob became a father to three more daughters, Colleen, Tracie and Jennie. Bob's working career started in the grocery business and he retired from Hi-Land Dairy in Salt Lake. Fond memories are told by his girls of ice cream treats from their dad's work place. Following his retirement Bob and Louise became avid gardeners. Many family and friends were generously blessed with the bounties from their garden and fruit trees. Bob will be fondly remembered as one who loved to tease, a peace maker and a resourceful "fixer upper". He once helped reunite two favorite uncles in California after a squabble over a five dollar bounced check. The uncles became very close buddies after that. He has remained a peace maker for many who will miss him. Left to mourn this sweet man's passing is his wife Louise (of 66 years) and four daughters: Nanette (John) Ririe, Colleen (Phil Schultz) Gibbons, Tracie (Adrian) Baures and Jennie (Brad) Carlson. Bob's six beloved grandchildren: Jessica (Chris) Sayles, Matthew Ririe, Justin (Abi) Ririe, Bailey Carlson, Ashlyn King and Hadden King. Seven great grandchildren Olivia Sayles, Montana Sayles, Jack Ririe, Lucy Ririe, Max Ririe, Noah Ririe and Hannah Ririe also mourn the loss of their grand pa and "gram cracker". Bob is also leaving behind his sister Mae Jean (Jerry) Brailsford and many nieces and nephews. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary in Murray, Utah. Funeral services will be held at Southeast Christian Church on 1881 East Vine Street on Friday December 1, 2023 at 11:00 am. Viewing will be prior from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with burial to follow at Murray City Cemetery.