Edwin Lee Gibbon

Edwin attended Riverside High School in Painesville, Ohio, where his achievements in business later earned him induction into the school’s Hall of Fame, a distinction that reflected both his talent and his drive. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Ohio State University, building a foundation for a remarkable career and a life of broad accomplishment.

Edwin served his country honorably in the United States Army Signal Corps during the Korean War. While in the Army, he also became involved in baseball, football, and basketball, reflecting both his competitive spirit and his love of teamwork. Whether following a game, discussing a favorite team, or simply enjoying the excitement of competition, he found genuine pleasure in the energy and camaraderie that sports brought into his life.

Edwin’s professional journey took him far beyond Ohio. He lived in Brazil and Korea, while serving as a manager for G.E. International Appliances; a career that allowed him to work in China, India, and Mexico. Through each role and each place, he was known for his steady leadership, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt with grace and confidence.

After retirement, Edwin especially cherished the time he spent traveling with his wife, Marti. Together they shared many journeys that reflected their companionship and shared sense of adventure. They also enjoyed spending summers in Madison, Ohio, at their cabin on Lake Erie, where many cherished memories were made.

Edwin was a man of many interests and talents. He was more than an avid golfer, and those who knew him understood that he was exceedingly skilled, though he was never one to boast. He designed his own home, a reflection of both his engineering mind and his practical creativity. He was also an enormous Ohio State fan and always cheered on the Buckeyes with enthusiasm and pride. He lived his life by the lessons of Rudyard Kipling’s poem “If,” and he shared those lessons with his children, teaching them the importance of character, resilience, and grace under pressure.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Martha “Marti” (Skrance) Gibbon; his daughter, Lisa Shields (James); his sons, Matthew Gibbon and Mark Gibbon; his stepsons, Bryan Frania (Cindy) and Steve Frania (Erika); his granddaughters, Natalie Shields, Chelsea Barth (Jonathan), Katie Frania, Ellie Frania, and Abby Frania; his grandson, Brandon Frania; and his great-grandson, Carson Barth.

He was preceded in death by his father, Merl Gibbon, and his mother, Mildred (Brown) Gibbon.

Edwin will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and respected friend. He lived with quiet strength, deep devotion to family, and a genuine care for others. His legacy will endure in the lives he touched, the example he set, and the many memories shared by those who loved him.