Gilbert F Walbourn

Gilbert "Gib" F. Walbourn, 87, of Polk, passed away at his residence with his loving wife by his side, at 8:00 a.m, on Wednesday, November 18th following a lengthy illness.Born December 31, 1927 in Sandycreek Township, Gib was the son of the late Gilbert H. and Marie Kirk Walbourn. Gib was a 1946 graduate of Franklin High School, and was a US Navy Veteran having served during WWII. While in the Navy, he was the recipient of the WWII Victory Medal, the USN Honorable Discharge Button, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button. Gib retired from Joy Manufacturing in 1990 where he worked as an Inspector for more than 40 years. He was a member of the Center United Methodist Church, a longtime former member of the Franklin Eagles, Franklin BPOE #110, and the Rainbow Sportman's Club. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, golfing, and reading Louis L'Amour novels.Gib is survived by his wife, Marlene, whom he married July 26, 1967; his son, G. Craig "Amos" Walbourn of Franklin; his 2 grandchildren, Shauna Rae Murphy and her husband, David, of Scottsdale, AZ and Brock K. Walbourn of Glendale AZ; and his great-grandson, Micah-John Murphy.He is also survived by his brother, James C. Walbourn of Franklin; his sister, Bonnie J. Kelsey of Traverse City, MI; and many beloved nieces and nephews.In addition to his parents, Gib was preceded in death by his brother, DeWayne Walbourn; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ralph and Mary Aylesworth.Family and friends will be received at the Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin on Friday, November 20th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the Funeral Home at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 21st with Rev. Stephanie Thompson, pastor of Center United Methodist Church, officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by the V.E.T.S. Honor Guard. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Center United Methodist Church, and/or to the charity of one's choice.To send flowers, cards, online condolences or for further information, family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com.