Ralph Blane Giberson Sr.

Ralph Blaine Giberson Sr., passed away April 18, 2007, peacefully in Cox Hospital with his wife at his bedside. He was born May 6, 1931, in Walnut Grove, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph L. and Helen S. Killingsworth, and stepfather, James Giberson. Ralph attended Greenfield schools until his senior year, then graduated from Greenwood High School. He attended SMS until joining the U.S. Marines, and completed his education after his service. Ralph owned and operated Mark Lindy's Appliance Center, later Springfield Appliance, Springfield Wheelhorse and Springfield Parts and Service. Ralph is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pat, and their son, Ralph Jr. "Skip", both of the home. Skip was his pride and joy, and during his long illness, they spent hours together listening to music and watching Skip's favorite movies. Also surviving are his sister, Bebe and husband, Jack King; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Tuck and Jane Zonka; and brother-in-law, Paul Tuck and wife, June; two nephews and their families, Max and David King; and two nieces, Luanne King and Lynda Johnson and family. Ralph was a member of the First Baptist Church, where he enjoyed the Chapel class. He volunteered in all of his son's activities and established with George Rook the first Boy Scout troop for persons with developmental disabilities. A visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. today, April 20, 2007, with funeral services following at 10 a.m., both in Greenlawn Funeral Home South, with Rev. Michael Overton officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations in his memory may be made to one of the following; Southwest Special Care Homes, Springfield Workshop Endowment, ARC of the Ozarks Capital Campaign, or the First Baptist Church.