Sylvester William Tibbits

Born to Ike and Larae Tibbits in Spokane. Upon graduation from high school, Bill enlisted in the Army and served during the Vietnam War flying on the Chinook Helicopters. Upon completion of his time in the Army, Bill returned to the states. After a brief stint in Georgia, he and Margie moved back to Spokane and were married in April of 1969. A few years later, they welcomed their only child, a son. Bill was a first-class salesman and worked in siding, insurance, construction and real estate. After several years in the construction industry, working for Baker Construction, Bill started his own construction company where he had a long run of success building commercial buildings all over the Northwest. Upon leaving the construction industry, he obtained his real estate license working in the commercial sector for over a decade until his retirement. When he wasn’t in the office working, Bill could be found on the golf course. This was his passion and he made several life-long friends through this endeavor. He traveled all over the country to play some of the most beautiful courses. While he had many passions, the true apple of his eye was his only grandchild, Annaka. He rarely missed any of her games and could always be counted on to keep the umpires in check and make sure they were aware of all the rules. He and Margie planned on spending their retirement traveling to new golf courses and seeing the world. Unfortunately, life had other plans as he was diagnosed with Parkinsons due to exposure he received during his time in Vietnam. He spent the last several years of his life coping with this disease which, despite his strong personality and willingness to overcome it, he succumbed to. He always made sure his family was taken care of and was a loving son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Margie, son James (Chandra), granddaughter Annaka, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Scott and Joanie Jones, brother Daniel and father Ike, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Larae and brothers Ronald and Larry. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 10th at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (4521 N. Arden Rd., Otis Orchards).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HazenJaegerValley.com for the Tibbits family.