Charles Gibbs, Sr.

Charles E. Gibbs, Sr., 81, of Polson,Mont. died on February 13, 2005 at Evergreen Health & Rehab. Center, Polson after a lengthy illness.

He was born on Feb. 19, 1923 to Donnis and Hazel (Perkins) Gibbs in Washington, Indiana. He spent most of his childhood in Evansville, Ind. He graduated from Evansville Central High School in 1941 and joined the U.S. Marine Corp. After the war, he returned to Evansville and married Leoda Harden. They later divorced. Charlie was called again to serve his country during the Korean Conflict. After discharge, he returned to Evansville. In November 1953, he married Eunice Erwin and they moved to Santa Ana, Calif., where he was an engineer in the aircraft industry. After Eunice's death, he married Catherine Graham in 1958. Charlie and Catherine retired to Polson in 1983. They built a passive solar home on Gingras Springs Road, which they designed themselves and Charlie did most of the construction. They enjoyed retirement traveling around Montana and visiting friends and family in other states. After Catherine's death, he married Irma Karl in December of 1998.

An accomplished pianist, Charlie studied classical music in his youth, but preferred playing most songs with a boogie-woogie beat. His daughter insists he is the only person who plays "Silent Night" with a boogie-woogie beat. He played in many bands and at church throughout his life as well as singing in several choral groups. His family always enjoyed his music and he entertained the residents and staff at Evergreen while he resided there. Charlie will be remembered for his ready smile, his generous spirit, and his music.

Besides his former wives, Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, a son Charles E. Gibbs, Jr., and a daughter Sharren Graham. He is survived by his wife Irma Gibbs of Polson, a daughter-in-law Cristy Gibbs, sons Lawrence Graham and Terry Graham, all of Polson, a daughter Sandra L. (Bud) O'Connor of Lyons, Colo., 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory of Polson, Mont.