Robert Gibbens

Robert Gibbens, 92, died Wednesday September 21, at the South East Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve, LA. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Mary Ann Ducote GIBBENS, who died in New Orleans on March 26, 2007. He is survived by his four children, Elizabeth Mary Gibbens MANTHEY (m Gustave A. Manthey) of New Orleans, Robert Day GIBBENS, Jr. (m Pamela Jackson GIBBENS) of Montgomery TX, Edward Jerome GIBBENS of Youngsville, LA and Dennis Moore GIBBENS of Los Angeles CA. In addition to his children, he is survived by nine grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Robert Gibbens was raised in Mathews LA near Houma on a sugar cane plantation with his parents and nine older siblings. His father was the manager of the plantation. He was a boarding student at St. Stanislaus through high school in Bay St. Louis MS. In World War II he entered military service in the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably, having participated in action on the Pacific islands of Okinawa, Saipan and Tinian. He continued his service in occupied Japan until his discharge in 1946 at the rank of Staff Sergeant. After the war and returning to New Orleans, Bob attended Loyola University; he met and married his beloved wife, Mary Ann. They were wed on June 11, 1947. Bob played semi-professional baseball for a time before becoming a general contractor in New Orleans. In the mid-1960's he also became a swimming pool contractor. He built thousands of pools in the New Orleans area and around the state over his long career which continued until the early 2000's. Bob GIBBENS retired to the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home where he lived until his death. He was happy at SELWVH and the family is thankful for all the love and care he received there, especially in his last days. Bob remained active, both mentally and physically until August when he fell ill. His daughter Liz was by his side at his death. Until just recently he enjoyed visits with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He took pleasure in the simple delights of travel and frequent visits to New Orleans to see friends and family and to eat at his favorite local restaurants. He had a full and long life and all who survive him and knew him and loved him will miss him. He was a brave but modest man. He will be remembered. Funeral service will be on Monday, September 26th at Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans LA 70119. Visitation for family and relatives will begin at 10am followed by further visitation by friends beginning at 10:45. A funeral Mass will be celebrated by Father Anthony McGinn, SJ at 12:15. Burial will be a Hope Mausoleum. Arrangements by JACOB SCHOEN & SON FUNERAL HOME. Condolences may be left at www.schoenfh.com..