John passed away Friday November 18, 2016 at Manitou Lodge; just three days shy of his 89th birthday. John was born on the family farm near Drake, Saskatchewan on November 22, 1927 to Francis and Edith Gibney and was the youngest of six boys. His primary education took place in the one room Bloomfield country schoolhouse, and he completed high school in Drake. Following high school, John moved to Vancouver, and then to Toronto, where he worked winters at Underwood Typewriters and at Canada Packers. Every summer he returned to Saskatchewan to work on the family farm. John eventually made the decision to farm full time and he remained active in day to day operations into his eighties. In 1958 John met Marleane Young who had moved to Watrous to begin her career in Nursing. They were married on January 7th 1960 and had three children Scott, Sandra and Sean.

John relished many things. He liked Western novels, GMC cars and trucks, anything sweet, afternoon naps, all cats, coffee row, and big band music. He found great satisfaction in farming and put his full effort into it. John also took much pride in his family and their accomplishments. He was a devoted husband and caring support to Marleane in the later stages of her illness. John was predeceased by his wife, Marleane in 2012, and his brothers, Neil (Alice), James (Esther), Donald (Helen), Frank (Kay) and Harold. He is survived by his children, Scott, Sandra (Warren) and Sean (Tammy) and his grandson Keiran. The family would like to thank Watrous and District Home Care for their past support, Manitou Lodge, for their excellent care and compassion, and many friends and neighbors for their good will and support over the years. If desired, you may send donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association.

We love you Dad, you will be missed.

“Nothing is more beautiful that the love that has weathered the storms of life”.