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MSgt. Daniel E. "Dan" Kibe USAF
1949 - 2014
MSgt. Daniel E. "Dan" Kibe USAF
1949 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
Daniel Kibe Obituary
He was born Nov. 30, 1949, in Pennsylvania, the son of the late Clarence Kibe and Norma Hall of Northampton. He was raised and educated in Westfield, attending schools there. He attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst and graduated from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture with a science degree.
He worked for the University of Massachusetts for 34 years as a technical specialist with the food science department.
Dan was also a master sergeant, serving with the 439th AES (Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron) at Westover Air Force Base. He proudly and honorably served his country over 20 years before his retirement. He received numerous commendations and citations including, the Korean Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism service Medal, Air Force Expeditionary Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Operation Nobel Eagle/Enduring Freedom and the Iraqi Freedom Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and National Defense Service Medal. He was proud of his country, his service and the many friends he met, worked and grew to know along the way.
Dan loved his Porsche, music and playing the guitar. A lover of the outdoors, he could be found hiking the valley, swimming or capturing nature in his photography. He was involved in everything, from the UMass Union to a radio show on WMUA to being his sister Linda's wine connoisseur. Dan and Carolyn loved to travel and visit friends. Dan was a loyal member of the World War II Club, serving in numerous board positions and was always willing to lend a hand at a fundraiser, club event or just volunteer his time. He loved people and lived his life to the fullest. He enjoyed spending immeasurable hours renovating "This Old House" at Bridge Street.
Dan was predeceased by his step-father Warren Hall of Westfield, his brother Donny Kibe of Huntington, and his in-laws Virginia and George Ryals of Virginia.
He leaves his loving wife of 32 years, Carolyn (Yancey) Kibe and his mother Norma Hall of Northampton; his two furry friends, Bill and Will (the cats); his sister Linda Kibe of Westfield; his sister-in-law Julie Kibe of Huntington; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Kathy and Herman Johnson of Palmyra, Virginia; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Peggy and Harold Yancey of Palmyra, Virginia; his eight nieces and nephews, Kristin Olinski, Caitlin Olinski, Joe Kibe and his wife Monica, David Kibe and his wife Lisa, Donald Kibe, Jr., and his wife Ashleigh, April Walker and her husband Jake, Herman Johnson, III, and his wife Dana and Stefanie Melton and her husband Jonathan; 12 great-nieces and nephews; many loving relatives; and many, many wonderful friends. Dan will be greatly missed.
Calling hours will be Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Czelusniak Funeral Home of Northampton, 173 North Street. A funeral service for Dan will be held Monday at the Czelusniak Funeral Home of Northampton at 10 a.m. followed by burial with full military honors in Bridge Street Cemetery.
Donations in Dan's memory may be made to the Dakin Animal Shelter, VNA & Hospice of Cooley Dickinson, World War II Club or the Cooley Dickinson Hospital Cancer Center.
To sign a Guest Book, express condolences, share memories and read other obituaries, go to www.gazettenet.com/obituaries.
57 Entries
Frank Georgia
June 19, 2023
I was in basic with Dan and never saw him again. Came across this photo thought you may like it. Saw that Dan passed. My condolences. Frank Georgia
Dusty
September 26, 2014
Thanks for being great friends, Dan, and Carolyn. Dan, you will be greatly missed, and often and fondly remembered. Save some seats at St. Peter's card games.
Sue Ross
August 13, 2014
Carolyn, we were very sorry and sad to hear of your sudden loss of Dan.
I really don't know what to say, although we don't know each other well, you have been in my thoughts...
Sue & Tracy
Ronald Sliwa
August 11, 2014
I served with Dan for many years, It was a pleasure, to serve and have known him
How you can show support
Kay Amos
August 9, 2014
Dan must have been an amazing man. Our sympathy goes out to the entire family and especially to my dear friend, Carolyn.
Maj. Cathie Manning(ret) 439 AES
August 8, 2014
Ours is not to question why a great man was taken far too soon in our eyes but knowing the grace of God has taken you in his wings there must be be better things in store for him. While the rest of us are left to ponder and reflect all the wonderful memories in the way the power of one gentleman, one truly amazing, kind, generous, thoughtful, funny, smart human being could touch so many lives is nothing short of a blessing. I am glad our paths crossed as I am a better person for having known you. My God comfort your family. God Bless.
Chris Bell
August 7, 2014
I had the pleasure of knowing Dan from the YMCA 6am water aerobics class. He was an inspiration to me and is greatly missed. RIP Dan and prayers and blessings to his family and friends.
Lt Col "Murph"
August 7, 2014
(Smartly saluting)
Proud to have had the opportunity to serve with you. Thank you for sharing 'that smile' and drive to keep ' er going....
August 5, 2014
Dan was one of the finest people I had the pleasure of working with in the AES. A very kind and sincere person. He is sadly missed by this "dinner buddy".
May you rest in peace my friend.
Steve Caraker
Belinda Morrone, Col (ret)
August 4, 2014
MSGT Kibe...Dan you are teaching us in death as you taught us in life "to live every day to the fullest". I know you are in heaven mentoring, leading, smiling. I am blessed to have known you if even for a short time. May God Bless and watch over your family in this very difficult time.
Carolyn Safarik
August 4, 2014
Carolyn you are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so very sorry for the loss of you husband.
Patti Cromack
August 4, 2014
Carolyn - I just got back to work after being away for a week and was told about Dan. I am so sorry, he was such a good man. My thoughts are with you.
August 4, 2014
How lucky for us who have come to know and love Dan---how sad for all the rest. God bless. D.Ricci
Ray Martin
August 3, 2014
To the family of Dan: Although Dan and I spent several years together in AES, I never really got to know him until after he retired when he and I had a very nice conversation while watching the squadron softball game. That evening made me wish I had the opportunity to work with him and know him longer. He was a great guy who I know will be missed by everyone who knew him. My deepest condolences to you all.
Kelly Spinelli
August 3, 2014
Dan-The world was a better place having you in it. If they have in-service in heaven I know you will be in the back quietly making everyone laugh. Thank you for your service and the memories.
Stefanie Melton
August 2, 2014
Uncle Dan you are loved and will certainly be missed. Aunt Carolyn our prayers and love are with you.
Dan Szafranowicz
August 2, 2014
MSgt. Kibe you will be dearly missed. Your were always there for your troops and friends. Dan constantly put others before himself during tought times. I was honered to deploy with MSgt. Kibe multiple times. He had amazing compassion for care for the seriously wounded kids coming out of the war zone. Dans advice will stay with and guide me the rest of my life. God speed dear friend
Donna Johnson
August 2, 2014
Carolyn and family
The world has lost one of its bright lights. Dan was one of a kind and I will miss his friendship and warm smile. Thanks for all you did for the union and by serving our country. You will be missed. Hold onto the memories they will get us all through this sad time. I am away at a conference but know I am sending good thoughts.
Major Patricia Wong
August 1, 2014
My deepest sympathies to Dan's family. To Dan, Thank you for teaching a young officer how to be a good leader and officer and to take care of your troops the proper way . Thank you for sharing your wisdom over the years. I was honored and privileged to have served with you. You are in God's loving arms. May he bless your family.
Debbie Baye
August 1, 2014
I will always remember the many, many conversations I had with Dan in his office in Chenoweth through my 30+ years working at UMass! He was such a GREAT guy and will truly be missed by many! RIP Dan......
William McGhee
August 1, 2014
Dan, you were a kind and gentle soul and your kindness and generosity will be missed by us all. May the angles be with you during your journey home.
Nancy Clegg
August 1, 2014
May god smile upon you as you enter into the ever after. Look after your family from above
Linda Kibe
August 1, 2014
I am overwhelmed with the outpouring of kind words about my brother. It is so obvious that he touched and inspired so many people in his lifetime. His zest for life brought him around the world, enjoying life to the fullest everywhere he went. We are sad for our loss and greatful to have had the man that he was in our lives. He loved his time at UMass and often talked of the joy he got from working with students. Thank you for your thoughts.
Carolyn Kibe
August 1, 2014
love you, light of my life
August 1, 2014
MSgt Kibe. I will always have great memories of our deployemnt together. You were a great NCO and lead by example. I salute you as you begin your journey of eternal rest.
May God be with you snd your family.
Major Crotty
August 1, 2014
We send our love and condolences, Carolyn. Dan was a terrific person and we know how much you will miss him. Thinking of you and sending hugs. Barbara Osborne & Dick Goldsby
Jean Alamed
August 1, 2014
My deepest sympathy goes out to Carolyn and Dan's family and his friends. Dan truly lived life to the fullest. He will forever live on in the memories and hearts of everyone that knows him. He was a dear friend and is missed greatly. Rest in peace.
anne cOLE
August 1, 2014
Prayer of peace and Joy for the wonderful spirit of life that has just departed Dan was a wonderful, talented scientist, flyer, friend, husband and military member, and associate, My prayers are with you, his family, Peace Anne Cole
August 1, 2014
The qualities that Dan embodied as a man has been very inspiring in my life ever since I worked in Food Science back in the 80's. My condolences Carolyn.
Stephen Marvell, Political Science, UMass
Steve Nojeim
August 1, 2014
I knew Dan from when I was a grad student in Food Science at UMass, and since then as a member of the FS Advisory Board and an employee of Ocean Spray. Dan was kind and dedicated in everything he did. The UMass community - and the world - will miss this wonderful man.
August 1, 2014
I had known Dan for many years at UMass. He was a great guy and I'll miss him a lot. Rest in peace, my friend.
--Dave Korowski
Leslie Marsland
August 1, 2014
My condolences to Dan's wife and family. Dan was great person & always had a kind heart. His service to the USA Sick Leave Bank went above and beyond. He will be missed by all.
Karlene DeVine, LTC (ret) USAFR, Nurse Corps
July 31, 2014
Carolyn and family,
I can't add anything to what has been said about Dan. One would wonder what God has planned for someone that gave us all so much here on Earth. "Food science" in Heaven ?, medical aerovac in Heaven ?--must be something really special that Dan was needed for. May you find peace in memories of your times together. Blessings,
Karlene DeVine
Athena Morris
July 31, 2014
I knew Dan from the USA/MTA union and he was always so kind and fun and welcoming. He really made UMass and the world a nicer and better place just for being in it. I will miss him a lot.
Kathy Kertiles Korchari
July 31, 2014
I have not seen Danny in probably 45 years. We went to school together at Westfield High. And during those four years,he sat right behind me in homeroom. You get to really know someone who sits right behind you everyday for four years!! And what fun we had. He was always laughing and fooling around, that twinkle in his eye always gave him away. Over the years, I have often thought of him. My sister, being good friends with his sister Linda, would mention Danny every once in a while and I would instantly smile. He was honest, loyal, and direct. That is what I remember and admired most about him. My sympathy goes out to his family.
Rafael Fissore
July 31, 2014
My sincere condolences Carolyn. Peace be with Dan, you and your family.
Paul Brisson
July 31, 2014
I have not seen Dan in several years but I do remember all of the years flying with him on various missions- always with a smile. Working in the squadron, after completing his assigned duties, Dan would be available to assist others with their duties.
Dan was a great person to work with, have as a friend and someone we all will greatly miss. Rest in Peace my friend.
Edwin Moralez
July 31, 2014
Dan brought an inspiration to many of us through his wit, respect, and smile. His true wealth was his enthusiasm for the "Wounded Warrior" and bring them back to a safe place. His ambition inspired all those he came in contact with, truly touched us with joy of memories and the beauty of life. I am grateful to have met him and having him as my wingman. I will be always grateful for the lessons and treasure the memories. RIP Brother..till we meet again.
July 31, 2014
In memory of Dan, a true renaissance man of quick wit, kind heart and much soul. Love you and Caro...Becky Lawlor
Uri Lesmes
July 31, 2014
I met Dan during my work at UMASS and am truly sad to hear of his passing. A real loss of a wonderful gentleman, may he be remembered for his many great characteristics: warm, kind, humble, funny, amiable, professional, welcoming and above all for being a great man. I very fondly recall my conversations with him and really enjoyed his company. May the family know no more sorrow.
Wasamon Nutakul
July 31, 2014
Dan, I always found you with a smile even in the toughest time. You are one of the people who makes Umass Food Science feels like a family to me. Thank you for being an amazing example in living a great life. It was an honor to have known you.
Lynne McLandsborough
July 31, 2014
Dan was a fixture in the Food Science Department, since forever, and when our alumni visit the department, often they ask about Dan. He was involved in the education of many of our Food Science students, and will be greatly missed.
Mary Jane Cahill, Lt Col USAFR, MSC
July 31, 2014
Always a smile even during 'block training' A good wingman, gentleman and a friend to all. It was an honor to serve with him at the 439 AES.
Don Wilson
July 31, 2014
Rest in peace, Brother.
Don Wilson, SMSgt, USAF ret.
911th AES, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Beth Donnelly-Barrientos
July 31, 2014
I will truly miss Dan's smile and laugh. He was so kind and professional, just a joy to be around. He helped everyone, never wanting or expecting anything in return. We all are blessed to have know him. My deepest sympathy to his wife and his family. God Speed Dan! You are surely with the angels! Beth Donnelly-Barrientos
Pavinee Chinachoti
July 31, 2014
When we met in 1986, who knew we ended up the best of friends. For 17 years, lunch conversation almost everyday with you was my favorite time. Your wicked sense of humor and open smile will always be remembered. But most of all, thanks, Dan, for bringing the best out of me and accepting me for who I am. You are more than just a friend but one who touched our hearts with your loving and caring soul. Sleep well, my friend. Until then..
Scott Labonte
July 31, 2014
Always a smile, always kind things to say about everybody. These and many others are the qualities that seperate the chaff from the real people. Dan was one of the real ones. I am going to miss the old military talks we had, but I know someday we will share that conversation again. Godspeed MSGT. Dan and family. You will be one of the people that others talk about with kind words- the kind of person you never forget. Fly high my friend.
Eric Decker
July 31, 2014
Dan was such an important part of the Food Science family and a favorite of the students. We will all miss him.
July 31, 2014
It was and honor and privilege to be a friend and colleague of Dan for all his years at food Science. He was a wonderful friend and an understanding, loyal and kind human being. He will be sorely missed.
With our deep sympathy to Carolyn and his family for this great loss
Ferg and Lynn Clydesdale
July 31, 2014
Dan was the greatest brother-in-law and uncle our family could ever have. He will be grealyi missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Carolyn and the entire Kibe family. His memories will fill our hearts and remain with us for enterity.
Herman and Kathy Johnson and family.
Mike Angelastro
July 31, 2014
Fly west, with Tailwinds always now Dan. Mike A, 74th AES 82-86
July 30, 2014
Thank you for coming into our lives. A candle to light your way home. Rest in Peace, our friend
Love,
Carlos and Nicole Morales
July 30, 2014
You will be missed, you were a wonderful man, with a deep boisterous laugh and a million dollar smile. It was great serving with you. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Until we meet again,
MSgt Nicole Morales, 439 AES
Mike Wright
July 30, 2014
God Bless you Dan.
July 30, 2014
It was my honor to have served with you. RIP my friend. Mary Hurnovich LTC (ret) 439AES
July 30, 2014
So very proud to have served with Dan. Always a smile & a helping hand.May God bless you & your family. Robin Richardson, CPT, USAF-R
July 30, 2014
A great man. A wonderful, loyal friend. Thinking of you Carolyn, Dave, Joe and your families. Blessings, Marie.
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