Attorney Harold Gibson

Attorney Harold E. 'Bud' Gibson, 75, of Mansfield, died Friday morning August 9, 2002 at Woodlawn Nursing Center. Mr. Gibson was born July 1, 1927 to Dr. Harold E. Gibson and Viola May Gluff Gibson in Wilmington, Ohio. Mr. Gibson was raised in Blanchester, Ohio, his family then moved to Kenton, Ohio. In 1944, Bud graduated from Missouri Military Academy in Mexico, Missouri. He attended Ohio State University until he entered the United States Navy, serving during World War II.

He entered Duke University in 1947, where he was a member and then president of the Duke Players. He worked at the Duke University Hospital while in undergraduate school and worked for McLean Trucking Co. while attending law school. In 1951 he received his BS. and in 1954 his LL.B. from Duke University.

Mr. Gibson studied and passed the Ohio State Bar Exam with the late Attorney John C. 'Jack' O'Donnell and Judge Vince Phelan and became a member of the Bar in 1956. On August 24, 1958 he married the love of his life, Mary Ann E. Orosan. After coming to Mansfield, he worked for Louisville Title Co., which was owned by Atty. Frank Morrison, until becoming Assistant City Solicitor under City Solicitor Robert E. Mabee for two years. Atty. Gibson was a current and past member of many organizations, which include, Ohio State Bar Association Board of Governors District 10, and had many Committee Assignments for 15 years; Ohio State Bar Association Council of Delegates from 1988 to 1995;Past President of Richland County Law Library Association from 1989 to 1995 member of the Board since 1973; Past President, Vice-President and Treasurer of Richland County Bar Association; Member of American Trial Lawyers Association since 1960; a thirty-five year member of the Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers; the American Bar Association; and the Richland County Bar Association.

Atty. Gibson was involved in many community activities, including: the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Loyal Order of the Moose, Elks Club, and the Exchange Club. He was a former member of the Richland County Republican Central Committee, Executive Committee, and Precinct Committeeman. He organized the Richland County Young Republican Club and served as its first President. He also assisted Jack O'Donnell in organizing the Young Democrats Club. As a member of the JAYCEES he headed the Sportsmen's Shows, held annually for fund raising purposes as well as participated in many Jaycee Community Programs. He gathered signatures for, and filed the Annexation Petitions for the West Park Shopping Center area which extended the city limits from Trimble Road to Home Rd., as well as the Steel Mill area including Hoffer's Addition and most important, the annexation of the Mansfield-Lahm Airport area. Harold felt that as long as Mansfield continued to grow, the economy would continue to improve and benefit everyone.

He was very involved and active in politics with his mentor, Attorney James V. Will. For many years he served as a precinct committeeman, poll worker, and member of the GOP Central Committee. Mr. Gibson had assisted many candidates in their pursuit of elected office. He acted as a Magistrate in the Mansfield Municipal Court, an experience he thoroughly enjoyed.

Harold enjoyed swimming, reading, watching the Duke Blue Devils Basketball games, visiting with and entertaining friends. He also enjoyed drinking coffee and having lunch with the guys. Bud's association and friendships made with the members of the Ohio State Bar Association Board of Governors was a highlight of his life.

Besides his loving wife, Mary Ann Gibson, he is survived by a daughter and former secretary for 26 years, Carla J. and spouse, LeRoy Clark of Mansfield; two nieces, Amy Orosan Sipes of Shelby; Lori Orosan Midgette of North Carolina; grandniece, Tanaya Fry of Shelby; many close and dear friends and clients. His parents and his sister, Joan G. Shaffer preceded him in death.

Friends may call at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors on Sunday August 11, 2002 from 2-8 p.m. and one hour prior to funeral services, which will be held on Monday at 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home conducted by the Rector Emeritus David S. Sipes of Grace Episcopal Church. The Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail will conduct military graveside services at Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be to the American Heart Association or to the National Kidney Association, c/o Richland County, 1370 W. 6th St. Suite 201, Cleveland, Ohio 44113.