Robert L. Gibbons, 86, of Plymouth, passed away at 5:11 a.m., on Dec. 17, 2014, at Sprenger Health Care, in Mishawaka.

Bob was born on Sept. 24, 1928, in Fulton County, to L.J. and Mildred (Quivey) Gibbons. He graduated from Richland Center High School. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in the Philippines. After an honorable discharge, from the Air Force, he married the former Joyce R. Douglass on May 16, 1959, in Plymouth.They shared 55 happy years together.

Bob worked at McMahon Construction; at G&G grocery store for over 21 years; and for 14 years at the City of Plymouth, in the Waste Water Department. Bob honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He was a member of the V.F.W. #1169 and the Marshall County Historical Society. Bob loved to fish and was always happy when he could share his passion with his family. He was such a family man and nothing made him happier than spending time with them. His children made him a big sport’s fan, through their continued education, of I.U., Purdue, and Ancilla. Bob had a smile as big as an ocean and a heart that matched.

Robert is survived by his loving wife; daughters: Brenda (Kevin) Case, South Bend; Patrick and Katie Conner; and Linda (Scott) Riley, San Clemente, Calif.; and their children: Susanne, Sean, and Patrick; their son: John (Sue) Gibbons, South Bend; and their children: David, Keaton and Erica Jones; his son-in-law: Darrell Carmean: his children: Gary and Darla. his sister: Kathryn (Harold) Hatten, South Bend; and a brother: Frank Gibbons, Texas.

He was preceded in passing by his daughter: Karen; his grandson: Eric; and brothers: Harold Gibbons and Roy Gibbons.

Bob’s family would like to thank Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, for the loving care they gave Bob during his illness and Pastor Larry for all of his support.

Memorials may be given to The First United Methodist Church, 400 North Michigan St., Plymouth.

Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Van Gilder Funeral Home, 300 W. Madison St., Plymouth, and from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at First United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at the church with Pastor Larry Marhanka officiating. Burial will be in New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth. Military honors will be presented by the VFW #1162, D.A.V. #42 and the American Legion #27.