Charles L. Gibbs

Charles L. Gibbs was born on February 27, 1928 to Lois Hunter and Harold Teachout in Grand Ledge, Michigan. He was adopted at age 2 years by Harry and Persis Gibbs. At age 91, Charles went to our Lord on Sunday, March 24, 2019 while in Hospice Care at McClaren Medical Center.

Charles grew up in the Lansing area and graduated from Everett High School in 1945. After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy. He received an honorable discharged after WWII ended. While working at Boston Insurance, he met Joyce Waite, who became his beloved wife on June 4, 1949. They had two lovely children, Annette (Jerry) Meints, and Larry (Vickie) Gibbs. Charles worked for the City of Lansing at the waste-water treatment plant from 1951 until his retirement in 1988. After retirement, Charles and Joyce traveled throughout the United States. For several years, they lived at Long Lake, Traverse City. They spent several winters in Lakeland, Florida, where they enjoyed watching the Detroit Tigers’ spring games and the warm sunshine. They eventually moved to Onondaga, Michigan, where they spent the rest of their lives.

Charles enjoyed many activities during his life. He was a leader in his son, Larry’s, Boy Scout troop. Gardening was among one of favorite activities. Charles always planted a vegetable garden, and grew fruit trees, raspberries, blueberries and flowering plants. He planted many shrubs and trees throughout his life. He was a friend to the animals. He also enjoyed fishing while at Long Lake. He was blessed with musical talent and was a member of the choir at Judson Memorial Baptist Church, where he attended for more than 70 years. He was also a member of the Capital City Chordsmen and Cherry Capital Chorus while he lived in Traverse City. Charles was a lifelong sports fan, enjoying the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, and the Michigan State Spartans. Cars were very important to him, and he could talk for hours about them. Charles and Joyce were big fans of Walt Disney World, and made several trips there, always staying in the Disney resorts. While living in Lakeland, they had season tickets.

Charles was a loving husband and a devoted father and loving grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Persis Gibbs; granddaughter, Windi Newman; and his wife of 64 years, Joyce. Surviving are children Annette (Jerry) Meints, Larry (Vickie) Gibbs, as well as 7 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 1 PM at Judson Memorial Baptist Church in Lansing. A private interment will follow the service and luncheon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Judson Memorial Baptist Church. Online condolences can be made at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home website: www.grbdmason.com