Gabby was born March 16, 1937 to Orange and Angie Barnum in St. George, Utah. He was the sixth of nine children and spent his youth in Mesquite, Nevada. He was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He enjoyed reading books about the pioneers, biographies of church leaders and “The Good Book”.
Gabby’s great thoughtfulness toward his family (immediate and extended) was evident. He continuously made an effort to express his love and concern, always leaving you with a hug and “love you”.
Gabby was happiest and most content spending time at his cabin at Strawberry Point, sitting in his “thinking chair” and training chipmunks to crawl up his leg for peanuts. His most treasured times were when family was there. Some of his favorite activities were deer hunting, pine nut picking and working in his yard. He was especially fond of drinking a cold root beer and eating ice cream or popcorn while watching old westerns, Golden Knights hockey, the Las Vegas Aces and any college basketball game (mainly the Rebels).
He was a master craftsman of wood and was known for creating beautiful heirloom-quality pieces enjoyed by multiple family members and friends. His last two creations were gifted to his oldest and youngest great-granddaughters.
Gabby was an extremely hard worker throughout his life. Beginning at the Hughes Dairy Farm, then moving on to the Blue Diamond (Flintkote) Gypsum Mine. His next stop was a 30+ year run as a long haul driver and dispatcher for a food service distributor, which was no surprise after he received two years of training as the school bus driver during his junior and senior years in high school in Mesquite. He finished his working years as the lead driver for the Metro Fleet.
He married Linda Easton in 1958, having three children together. In 1970 he married Nora Marjie, his wife of 54 years. Together, they have one daughter. He was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings.
Gabby is survived by his loving wife, Nora, his children: Larry (Cindy) Barnum, Dawna (Mark) Gubler, Dennis (Jolynne) Barnum, Jennifer (Scott) Barnum, ten grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Roxie Bearden and Aschel Barnum, as well as countless ( a “truckload”) of adoring nieces, nephews, and cousins.Gabby’s genuine smile and loving ways will always be remembered and deeply missed.
Funeral services for Gabby will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024: Visitation will begin at 9:00 am followed by services at 10:00 am at Hillpointe LDS Chapel - 9011 Hllpointe Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89134.
Interment will take place following the services from 11:30 am - 12:00 pm at Palm Northwest Mortuary - 6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada 89131.
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