Steve Russell Gibbon

Steve Russell Gibbon, a patriot and decorated veteran, passed away peacefully from natural causes on December 15, 2024 in Columbus, Georgia at the age of 80.  Born on October 14, in Clear Lake, Wisconsin, Steve’s life was one of service, courage, and dedication.  A visitation will be held Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 PM at McMullen Funeral Home, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, Georgia 31907.  Following the visitation a private service will be held for the immediate family.

Steve graduated from Ashland High School in 1962 and continued his education, earning Bachelor of Science degree from Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, in 1966.  He also earned a Master’s Degree from Georgia State University in later life.  Following College, Steve served in the United States Army for nine years achieving the rank of Captain of Infantry.  His military service included two tours in Vietnam as well as assignment within CONUS.  His awards included the Silver Star, Bronze Star w/3rd Oak Leaf Cluster & V Device, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm,  Air Medal,  Army Commendation Medal w 1st Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.  After a decorated nine-year military career, Steve transitioned into the US Army Civil Service where he continued to contribute to his country with the same fervor and commitment for an additional 21 years.  During his Civil Service career, Steve also taught at Troy State University.  During his off time he could always be found at the local ballpark watching his grandchildren play ball.  He played both high school and college football. He loved dogs and walked them every day at Britt David until he couldn’t.

Family was the cornerstone of Steve's life. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Helen and Russell "Doc" Gibbon, Brother Mike Gibbon and Wife, Sandra Gibbon.

Left to cherish his memory are his granddaughter, Cecely Singletary; his sister, Bonnie Huettl and her husband, Larry Huettl of Seymour, Wisconsin, who stood by him through life's journey. Also honoring his legacy are Steve's brothers, Dan and his wife Gloria from Medford, Wisconsin; Tom and his partner Gary of Guerneville, CA; his dear nephew, Kurt from Petaluma, California. His niece, Krisan Bastil (Shane) of Park Falls, Wisconsin; great grandchildren, Haley Singletary, Carson Singletary, and Brycen Dohney; Great-great grandchildren River and Cohen Formaggioni and special friends Dave and Deanna Stevenson.

Steve was a man of many interests, with a particular passion for hunting and fishing and an unshakeable patriotism for his country. His days in the woods and his love for the United States were indicative of a man who deeply appreciated the simple freedoms often taken for granted.

The embodiment of honor and dedication, Steve Gibbon leaves behind a legacy of service, heroism, and deep familial love. He will be remembered as a courageous soldier, a loyal family man, and a true American patriot.