Gilbert "Gib" Earl Hamann

Born on April 4, 1932, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, to Fred and Mabel (Gruenwald) Hamann, Gilbert spent his early childhood in the Milwaukee area before his family moved to West Bend when he was eight. His parents purchased a farm on Wallace Lake Road, where Gilbert attended Trenton School, a one-room schoolhouse serving multiple elementary grades. He rode his horse to school every day! He later attended West Bend High School, graduating in 1950.

Known affectionately throughout his life as Gib, he enlisted in the United States Air Force the following year. He served proudly for four years as an airplane mechanic, traveling extensively across Europe until his discharge in 1955. Upon returning to West Bend, he worked for the Gehl Company as a production manager for more than a decade.

In 1973, Gib moved his family to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he owned and operated an auto parts warehouse in Tempe. After retiring, he and his wife, Arlette, embraced life on the road, traveling the country in his RV—one of his greatest joys. He also loved golfing, bicycling for as long as he was able, tackling his daily crossword puzzles, and his hot fudge sundae trips! Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, friends and neighbors.

Gib is survived by his children: Gail (Gary) Dempsey, Michael Hamann, and Gary Hamann; his grandchildren: Matthew Barrett, Adam (Brittany) Barrett, Collin Barrett, Brian Hamann, Jay Hamann, and Kristina (Ken) Strickler; and his great grandchildren: KysaRaye Hamann, LibertySue Carnes, Brett Hamann, Declan Hamann, Harper Hamann, and Vivienne Barrett.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 62 years, Arlette; his son Russell Hamann; his daughter in law Sherry Hamann; his grandsons Alan Hamann and Joshua Hamann; his brother Don Hamann; and his sisters Arleen Thierfelder and Audrey Hamann.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Eden’s Assisted Living in Chandler for their exceptional care during the two years Gib resided with them, and to Anthem Hospice in Gilbert for their compassionate nursing support. We were truly blessed that they were part of his life and ours as well.

Gib's Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Desert Cross Lutheran Church: 8600 S. McClintock Dr. Tempe, AZ 85284. There will be a reception and gathering at the church immediately following the service.