Edward Giblin

1918 - 2016

EDWARD GIBLIN CROWN POINT, IN
Edward Giblin, 97, passed away peacefully February 23rd, 2016 in Crown Point, IN. Born in Ivesdale, IL on November 14, 1918, Edward was the son of Frank and Lucy Giblin. Following his graduation, he began work with the E, J & E Railroad until receiving his draft notice in 1941. Initially drafted into the Army, he applied to the Army Air Force Flight Navigation School after completing his infantry training. Upon graduation from Flight Navigation School, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant and stationed in Chabua, India. He served as navigation officer on flights between Chabua and Kunming, China. The airmen referred to these perilous flights over the Himalayas as "flying The Hump". Edward was modest regarding his service during World War II, preferring to recount stories of the beauty of The Taj Mahal and raising an orphaned leopard cub in their camp. Following his discharge from the Air Force in 1945, he returned to Champaign County, IL where he met and married his wife Dolores on January 16, 1954. The couple moved to Gary, IN and Edward returned to his job with the E, J & E, working as a fireman until his retirement. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and The American Legion, participating on several bowling leagues over the years. He also greatly enjoyed golf, playing with members of the St. Stephen, Martyr Men's Club, where he was a parishioner until his death. He could still be found on the golf course at 95, challenging his son-in-law. Edward possessed a deep love for others and supported numerous charities throughout his lifetime; especially close to his heart were Smile Train and Child Fund International. He saw 20 children through high school, supporting their education and helping with their families' needs. He was always pleased to share the photos and letters these children sent over the years. Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dolores (Bonnell) Giblin; loving brothers: Francis, Paul, Joseph, Vincent and James (Grove); and cherished sisters Myrtle, Grace, Mary and Beverly. He is survived by his children: Susan (Dale) Harvoth and Michael Giblin; grandchildren: Joshua (Erin) Harvoth and April (Allen) Young; great-grandson, Payton Young; and sister, Vicki (Joe) Goodmann; as well as numerous and much loved nieces and nephews. The family would also like to express our deepest appreciation to the wonderful women who cared for Edward with such love and kindness; Thank You our dear friends, Sharon, Ama, Amy, and Stephanie. Visitation will take place at Rendina Funeral Home in Gary, IN on Sunday, February 28, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at St. Stephen, Martyr Catholic Church in Merrillville, IN on Monday, February 29, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. with burial at Calumet Park Cemetery to follow immediately thereafter. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Edward's legacy of love and kindness by greeting a stranger with a smile, helping someone in need, and holding those you love close.