Ricky "Rick" Lee Gibson
December 08, 1957 — August 01, 2024
Ricky Lee Gibson, 66, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.
Rick was born December 8, 1957, in Des Moines, Iowa to Merle “Bud” LeRoy Gibson and Katherine Ida (Ware) Smith. He had an interest in family history and genealogy. Rick had an unusual obsession with crime shows and documentaries. He also enjoyed playing Facebook games. Rick loved traveling with friends and trips to the casino. He was talented at art projects and crafts, often giving them as gifts.
Rick had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh and joke. He was the life of the party! Rick was a friendly guy with a warm heart. Above all, he loved his family and to be called “Papi” by his grandkids.
He is survived by his son Nate Gibson (Sheila), daughter Sarah Marchman (Greg), siblings Kathy Lewis, Bob Gibson (Patty), Don Smith, Becky Johnson, Tracy Jamieson, and Tim Gibson (Laurie), as well as many beloved grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents Bud Gibson and Katherine Smith; and sister, Tammy Gibson.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, IA. Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at Hamilton’s, will be followed by a reception. The burial will occur at United Brethren Cemetery, Madrid, IA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions would be appreciated to a hospice organization of the donor’s choice in honor of Rick.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Kathy Lewis
08/09/2024
How do you begin to say goodbye to your little brother and best friend?
I would like to think that Rick and I had a special bond from the day that he was born.
A friend of his recently made the comment about him having a “beautiful soul”. There are no truer words. Anyone that had met him would agree. His warm smile and heart filled the room.
I had the privilege of providing care for him during his health issues when he needed assistance. I would not have had it any differently. He was my priority.
There were many times that I watched as he struggled to take his next breath or to do daily functions. This broke my heart. I recently told him how I admired him for his strength to continue to fight and stay with us. Most individuals would not have been able to do so.
I know he is at peace now, which is what we all prayed for, however that does not make it any easier knowing that he is not here with me.
I’m smooching your face little brother!!
Penny Akers
08/04/2024
RIP Rick. My thoughts and prayers to all his family. He was such a kind, funny guy.
Craig Vasey
08/03/2024
Words cannot express the sadness I feel right now. Rick was funny, kind, loving and touched my heart in a way few people have.