It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Francis "Kayo" Libbus a loving husband, dad, giddie, great giddie, uncle, brother and friend on December 23, 2021, in Sydney after 98 wonderful years.
Born on November 15, 1923, Francis was the last surviving member of his family. He was born to Lebanese immigrants Assad and Annie (Ferris) Libbus. His father passed suddenly when he was just 5 years old. He grew up in the Libbus Block surrounded by a loving and supportive extended family. At the young age of 17 Kayo began his life long career as a barber in the Libbus Block, “his shop” for 68 years was always located on Townsend Street. Most mornings he could be spotted at Kay's having breakfast. The shop was a special place of friendship and camaraderie, where stories and jokes were shared (If only the chair could talk).
Francis is survived by his true love and partner of 70 years, Morena (Tobias) and five children, Frances (David) Alteen, Robert (Jane), Rosalie (Jerry) MacInnis, Carolyn Johnston and Lisa (Timothy) Reiley, 13 grandchildren, Michael (Carli), Stephen (Mary Ann), Jennifer, Adam (Keri), Jeffrey, Christopher (Johanna), Bradley, Joshua, Shayne (Georgi), Justin (Jen), Stephanie, Carly (Carlo), and Colton, 5 great grandchildren, Jacob, Sydney, Cooper, Tobias and Alex. Kayo had a deep love for his family, placing upmost importance on the family unit. He was a true gentleman who was humble, charismatic and kind hearted. We were blessed to have him in our lives. He was our hero, "everything we would like to be".
Francis is also survived by sisters-in-law, Stella Libbus and Carol French, brother-in-law John Tobias, many very special nieces and nephews and his godchildren, all of whom he held dear to his heart.
Besides his parents he was predeceased by his Brothers: Alex (Jenny), Jamael and Sisters: Fanny (Charlie) Aboud, Marena (Joe) Garabb, Freda (Ross) Carnahan and Rose (Joe) Lane. Granddaughter Heather Alteen. Father and Mother-In-Law John & Jenny Tobias, and In-Laws Roberta & George Gagnon, Linda Tobias and George French. Nephews Billy Libbus (son of Alex) & Ronnie Libbus (son of Jamael).
"Kayo" excelled in many sports and was a great fan. He not only played fastball but also coached the Cedars Club team in 1966. He coached and played hockey for many years, completing his hockey career with the 1945/46 Sydney Millionaires. He was a shuffle board champion, loved to swim and dive, played pool and loved a game of Tarbish, many times as a part of the legendary foursome with Jamael, Dates and Sammy. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed hunting and fishing especially in his beloved Margaree. He was a member of The St. Joseph’s Lebanese and Syrian Benevolent Society and was active in the club. Music was an important part of Kayo’s life. He was an excellent singer and entertained whenever asked at functions and parties, always ending with his grand finale “My Way”. It will be missed.
The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the management and staff of the Cove Guest Home, Orchard Unit and Recreation for the excellent care given to Kayo. A donation will be made in his memory.
Due to present Dept of Health Covid restrictions events will be by invitation only.Visitation will take place Friday, January 14, from 7pm - 9pm. at TW Curry Parkview Chapel.
Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, January 15 at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, at 11am. Fr. Bill Burke, celebrant.
We do Invite you to join us on a live stream of the service via TW Curry's Facebook page. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
If desired a donation may be made to the Horizon Achievement Centre Building Fund or the Canadian Cancer Society.
"Yes, it was my way"
