Dale Gibbs

Dale Eugene Gibbs, 87, of Eugene Oregon, passed away in the late evening on July 15,2014. He fought hard against a myriad of health problems that included cancer and COPD.Dale was born on March 11, 1927 in Humeston, Iowa to Lloyd Williams Gibbs and Cleo Auxier. He married Dolores May Hayes on April 8, 1949. He is survived by three siblings, his two sons Dennis and Hal Gibbs, And three grandchildren.Dale was described by friends as a genuine, hard working "salt of the earth" man. He served in the United States Navy and worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad for most of his life.The family was honored to have the opportunity to spend time with Dale and to learn more about his life over the few weeks before he passed. Even in his last days, he always had a smile and a clever quip for the nurses and anyone who crossed his path.On Tuesday July 15th, Dale drifted off into dreamland and never woke up, which is exactly how he wanted to go. Earlier that day he told his family that he needed to board "the ship", and asked when he was leaving and who would take him. We assured him that we would take him and that he could go whenever he was ready. And that's how we will choose to remember him - dolled up in his Navy uniform, sailing off into the sunset.Rest in Peace Dale, beloved brother, father, grandfather and friend. You will be missed.