Arthur J. GIBNEY

GIBNEY, Arthur J.

Arthur J. Gibney, 86, of New Britain, died on March 2, 20012 at home with his family by his side. Art was born in Meriden, CT in 1926, the son of the late Hugh and Mary (Dunne) Gibney. He graduated from the Teachers' College of Connectciut and enlisted in the US Army Air Force in 1943, serving in the Pacific and Europe until 1946. In 1951, he married Anna, the love of his life, who stayed by his side through the ensuing years and through the last moments of his life. Art continued his education by earning a Master's Degree in Education at Columbia University and a Sixth Year Certificate from UCONN. He started his teaching career as an elementary school teacher in East Hartford and became President of the East Hartford Teachers' Association, working additionally as an adjunct professor of education at CCSC. Art spent the remainder of his career in the West Hartford School System as the Principal of three schools before retiring in 1983. During his time in West Hartford, he initiated several innovative programs related to community education for pre-school children and senior citizens. In retirement, Art continued as a substitute teacher, tutor and mentor for "at risk" students in New Britain. He was active as an aid in the Connecticut Legislature and for the Attorney General's Office, where he developed materials to protect senior citizens from scams. To all those who knew him, he will be remembered for his quick wit and dedication to serving his community. In addition to his parents, Art was predeceased by his son Kenneth, as well as four brothers, Hugh Jr., Robert, Edward, James and his wife June, and one sister, Ethel and her husband Robert Schipke. Art is survived by his wife Ann, his sons Kevin, and Arthur and his wife Jody, and a granddaughter Ann Marie. He is also survived by sister-in-law Mary (Betty) Gibney, Jane Gibney, Josephine Kulak, Josephine Najduch and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Leonard and Elizabeth Dudek, and several nieces and nephews. The family wishes to express gratitude for the concern shown from his loyal friends at the YMCA Health Club, and his friends at the State Legislature. Words cannot express our sincere appreciation to all involved in the loving care given to Art as a patient at the Walnut Hill Care Center, especially the staff of South Wing. Special appreciation is extended to VNA Hospice Care.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday (March 10) 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church, 195 South Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Donations may be made to Saint Joseph's Church. The Carlson Funeral Home, New Britain is assisting the family with arrangements. www.carlsonfuneralhome.com