Bobby Gene Kibby

Bob Kibby, affectionately known to his family as “Gramps,” passed away surrounded by his loving family on August 21, 2026, at the age of 91. Less than five weeks after losing his beloved wife Mildred, Bob succumbed to congestive heart failure.

Bob lived a life defined by honor, brilliant craftsmanship, and an enduring sense of adventure. After developing a strong foundation of discipline in the ROTC program at the University of Oklahoma, Bob proudly served for two years in the United States Air Force.

His passion for aviation led him to Arlington, Texas, where he built a distinguished career as an aerospace engineer. He worked the entirety of his professional life for LTV/Vought Aircraft.

In his late 50s, Bob retired to pursue his numerous hobbies. He filled his days by meticulously building his own Van’s RV-12 light sport airplane. He spent countless joyful hours flying his homebuilt aircraft and soaring in his sailplane, even competing in various soaring competitions.

When he wasn't in the air, Bob was chasing speed and adventure on land and snow. He was a passionate downhill skier, hitting the slopes every year into his late 80s. On the road, his pride and joy was his original 1960 Porsche 356, which he lovingly restored by hand in the late 1980s. Bob and Mildred joined the ‘356 Tub Club’ enthusiast group, embarking on many memorable road trips with fellow classic Porsche admirers.

Bob was a devoted husband, a strong leader for his family, a cherished grandfather, and beloved great-grandfather. He was a kind man of integrity, worthy of respect. A gentle giant, he was loved by all who knew him.

Bob is survived by his daughter Merrill Eliff Fry and husband Larry, and son Robert Kibby and wife Leslie. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Kathryn Kibby, Melissa Kibby Tjarks Mai and husband Michael, Parker Eliff and wife Ana, Alexis Eliff Faulk and husband Andrew, Chase Eliff, Caroline Kibby and husband Gianluca Percovich, and Josh Kibby and husband Gregg LeBus. He was beloved by their great-grandchildren Daniel Eliff, Parker Mai, Payton Mai, Paisley Mai, Jackson Tjarks, and Emery Mai.