Hershel L. “Hoot” Gibson, age 68, of Marion, died Thursday morning, October 15, 2015, at Marion General Hospital following a brief battle with ALS.
On February 14, 1947, Hershel was born in Fonde, Kentucky, the ninth of ten children of the late Dewey and Ardie (Evans) Gibson. Then, as a family, they moved to Marion, Ohio, in 1953 for work. Hershel graduated from Marion Harding High School in the class of 1966.
In August of 1966, Hershel was drafted to serve in the United States Army, a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. He served as a military policeman both stateside and overseas, earning several service medals, including two bronze service stars.
Upon his honorable discharge, Hershel returned home to Marion, Ohio, and shortly thereafter married the love of his life, Debra Spires, on January 31, 1969. They shared over 41 years together. She preceded him in death on May 24, 2010.
Dedicated to the Eaton Forge Corporation in Marion, Hershel worked there for over 40 years, working his way up to being an inspector. He retired from there in 2009.
An avid sports fan, Hershel loved watching his beloved Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Browns, and Ohio State Buckeyes. He also loved shooting pool and bowling in his younger days.
A very soft spoken and easy going man, Hershel believed in the saying, “live and let live.” He also was very independent, not asking anything of anyone.
He is survived by his three children: Todd Gibson, Mark (Susie) Gibson, and Lisa Gibson; three grandchildren: Anthony (Tiffany) Gibson, Kaitlynn Gibson, and Marissa Campbell; one sister, Beverly (Steve) Sparling; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Including his wife and parents, Hershel was preceded in death by eight siblings: Foster, Kenneth, Jimmie, and Benny Gibson, Betty Fischer, Erma Willmeth, and Earnie and Everett “Venus” Gibson.
Services honoring Hershel’s life will be observed privately by his family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist with funeral expenses.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Hershel’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
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