Gary L Libbey

Gary Lee Libbey of Franklin, Indiana passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 59. He was a son, father, brother, and friend. He will always be remembered for his love of animals and skills in carpentry. He had a rare gift of making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.
Born on January 12, 1966, in Akron, Ohio, after moving here in 1975, Gary lived for many years in South Bend, Indiana, where he spent meaningful years as an East Race supervisor, city code enforcement officer, and the director of Animal Control. Gary tirelessly advocated for animals by helping to establish the city's first South Bend Animal Resource Center.
As a young man Gary excelled in athletics as a track star and swimmer at LaSalle High School, where he still holds the record for high jump and the medley relay. He then continued his education at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. Outside of school and work, Gary loved camping and hiking. Family was very important to Gary and he loved spending time with his family and extended family.
Gary is survived by his daughter Margaret Libbey (Ryan), and his son Lucas Libbey. Also surviving are his parents, Robert and Karen Libbey, his sister, Tammy (Jon) Colson, all of South Bend, and his nephews Jeremy (Kaleigh) Colson, of Indianapolis and Jacob Colson, of Edwardsburg, MI.
The family is thankful that Gary was able to be an organ donor, giving the gift of life to many others.
A celebration of Gary's life will be held on Saturday, August 9th from 1:00pm- 4:00pm in South Bend, Indiana at the Nature Center at the St. Joseph County 4-H Fairgrounds. Friends and family are welcome to attend and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the South Bend Animal Resource Center at the link below: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=XCBPKGA3XZT46&source=url&ssrt=1753033091167
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