Robert E. Gibbs

Robert E. Gibbs, former longtime resident of Elmhurst and Oak Brook, IL, passed away on August 8, 2025, in Seattle, WA, surrounded by loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary, their daughter, Christina, and his children Kathleen (John) DeCarlo, Thomas (Catherine) Gibbs, Cynthia (James) Ethington, Laura (Sanford) Glazer, Elizabeth Wilde, 11 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Robert was born November 8, 1925, in Elmhurst, IL, to Alice (nee Bergsten) and Frank E. Gibbs. After graduating York Community High School in 1943, Robert enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). During World War II he served honorably in the Mediterranean theatre with the 15th Air Force, 460th Bombardment Group, stationed in Spinazzola, Italy. Robert flew in the Consolidated B-24 Liberator as nose gunner and radio operator on more than 30 missions over Eastern Europe. While returning from his last mission, his B-24 Liberator was shot down, crash landing behind enemy lines in Yugoslavia. Robert was Missing In Action for eight months, fighting alongside the Allied Resistance while evading capture, eventually returning safely to his unit in Italy. Humble by nature, Robert rarely spoke of his wartime service but was deeply proud to have served his country; in later years, he wore an embroidered WWII Veteran's Cap, and was touched when others thanked him for his service.

After honorably discharging from the USAAF, Robert attended the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana, graduating with honors, and continued his education at the University of Illinois Chicago, studying Dentistry and Orthodontics. Robert achieved board certification in orthodontics and was blessed with a successful career owning orthodontic practices. He was dedicated to his patients and career for over 50 years and was a lifetime member of the American Dental Association and American Association of Orthodontics. Robert found much joy in helping people of all ages smile with confidence.

Robert raised his family in the suburbs of Chicago but had a lifelong connection to Lake Geneva, WI, first visiting this area in his youth. He was fortunate to eventually own a home in Fontana, providing the perfect backdrop for his family and friends to gather and create treasured lifelong memories. Sailing, swimming, fishing, and early morning waterski sessions will be happily remembered. His passion for nature and life near the water he shared with those he loved is among his most cherished and lasting legacies.

Robert's family has fond memories of his love for music (Frank Sinatra was a favorite), Ivar's fish and chips, and ice cream, especially during his later years. He filled his days listening to music on his Alexa, reading along or singing the lyrics... sometimes very loudly, always with pure joy. Robert often spoke of days gone by, of good times spent with his friends, playing tennis, and snow skiing with his family.

Robert was a kind and thoughtful husband, father, friend, and all-around "great guy", generous with a smile and a good sense of humor. He had a calm depth of character and patience in all aspects of his life. He was very proud of his wife and family and spoke of them all very often... actually any chance he had! Robert will be thoroughly missed by all who knew him, but his friends and family can take comfort in knowing he lived a long and authentic life, mirroring the spirit of his favorite Sinatra song, "My Way".

A Celebration of Life planned for Summer 2026, date and location to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Veterans of Foreign Wars or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, are appreciated.