Larry Robert Gibson

Larry Robert Gibson, 57, Kokomo, passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2014, at St. Joseph Hospital. He was born March 15, 1957, in Oneida, Tennessee, to Larry Howard and Wilma (Crabtree) Gibson. On September 18, 1976, he married his high school sweetheart, Kathi Rennaker, who survives. They would have celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary this month.

He brought great joy to his family as the first son and grandson and was doted on by all. He graduated from Haworth High School in 1975 and later returned to college to complete his degree in electrical engineering from IUK. He worked many jobs throughout his life including King of the Road Electronics and Emergency Radio Service. His greatest love was music and playing guitar for numerous bands. He started with Valhalla while still in high school and also played with Midnight Lace, Vendetta, and Just Some Guise to name a few. He liked nothing better than jamming with friends anytime he could. Larry never met a stranger and would go out of his way to help anyone in need. He coached YMCA basketball in the 90’s and was the first person to receive coach of the year award. He loved working with kids and passed many of his talents on to his own children. He enjoyed reading and watching science fiction, especially Star Trek and Dr. Who, and was a Colts and Pacers fan. Larry struggled back from a debilitating stroke in 2009 and through sheer will and determination, was able to rehab home in 2010. He had many challenges in his life but was determined to overcome them and be the best person he could be. A shining light has burned out too soon, and he will be greatly missed.

In addition to his wife, Kathi Gibson, he is survived by two sons, Joshua (Katherine) Gibson, Noblesville, and Andrew Gibson, Lafayette; one daughter, Kelli Gibson, Indianapolis; one grandson, Tyler Gibson, Noblesville; his mother, Wilma Gibson, Kokomo; and two sisters, Ellen Gibson, Fort Wayne, and Teresa Gibson, Kokomo.

He was preceded in death by his father.

A visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home. Inurnment will take place in Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Messages of condolence may be expressed online at www.sunsetmemorygarden.com.