A funeral will be held Monday, March 11, 2024 for 76-year-old Thomas Richard Gibbar of Perryville who passed away Sunday, March 3, 2024 at St. Louis University Hospital.
He was born August 16, 1947 in Perryville a son of Harold and Zita (French) Gibbar who both preceded him in death. He was the third of their four children.
Thomas and Helen (Pingel) Gibbar were married December 14, 1968 at St. Vincent’s Catholic Church, and enjoyed 56 years of marriage. She survives.
He is also survived by a daughter: Sabrina of Atlanta, Georgia; a son: Gregory and his fiance Erin; a brother: Roger and sister-in-law Karen.
He was also preceded in death by a brother: Harold Gibbar Jr.; and a sister Dorothy (Gibbar) Wibbenmeyer.
He was a member of the United States Army and a veteran of the Vietnam War.
Thomas was a charter member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Lodge 2701 and performed numerous roles for the organization at local, district, state and national levels including Treasurer, Leading Knight, Exalted Ruler and National District Deputy.
Thomas started his professional career as both a government and a corporate auditor before opening Gibbar Bookkeeping and Tax, which operated out of the Perry Plaza for more than 30 years. His clients knew that his door was always open, and would often visit between appointments to chew the fat and discuss events affecting Perryville and Perry County.
He also volunteered for both the Perry County Behavioral Health Service and the Senior Citizens Association.
Thomas was well known as a chef, able to throw together dishes without needing a recipe (to the delight and frustration of those around him). He loved cooking for his friends and relatives, and he and Helen hosted many dinners that were enjoyed by all who attended.
He was also ridiculously lucky; there was many a “board” won by him at the Perryville Elks Lodge.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Sunday, March 10, 2024 and 8-9 a.m. Monday, March 11, 2024 at the Ford & Young Funeral Home.
A funeral mass for 76-year-old Thomas Richard Gibbar of Perryville will be at 10 a.m. Monday, March 11, 2024 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville with the Rev. Joe Geders C.M. officiating.
Military honors will follow provided by the Delta Team and American Legion Post No. 133.
Memorial contributions may be given to American Cancer Society or charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.