Robert William Ibey
Robert William Ibey
1927 ~ 2023
Robert William Ibey, affectionately known as Bob, was born on September 7, 1927 in San Diego, California to his Parents Virginia Louise Gidney and Williard Ibey. Bob also had a younger brother Byron Ibey who recently passed away and a sister, Charlene Liddiard residing in Orem, Utah. Bob and family moved to Los Angeles, at which time, at the tender age of 16.
Bob joined the Merchant Marines during the throws of World War II. He served on two ships during a two-year tour namely; the SS Mission Santa Barbara and the SS Appomatox, both of which survived the war while many others were sunk.
After the war ended, he married his sweetheart, Jaqueline Marie Saputo and from that union, three wonderful children namely; Kathleen, Michael and Nicholas came into the world. Although a dissolution of marriage happened, Bob and Marie remained friends until her recent passing. While living in Los Angeles, Bob met and dated and eventually married the love of his life, Darlene Virginia DowDell. They married in the Los Angeles Temple and shared 59 years together until Darlene passed in 2015.
Bob and Darlene adopted Jerry and JiNell through LDS Services and shortly thereafter were able to have two children of their own namely; Jay and Joelle, bringing the family total to 7 children. Bob and Darlene lived for over 40 years in Whittier, California, then Winchester, California and eventually settled right here in American Fork, Utah. From these 7 children and married spouses, a posterity of 28 grand-children and 54 great-grand-children and 2 great-great grand-children blessed his life.
Bob also served with the Whittier Police Department for over 25 years receiving many honors and recognitions. Bob was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He loved God, Country and Family and was indeed an Officer and a Gentleman. Bob loved the Savior Jesus Christ and although a little rough around the edges sometimes, he was really a tender-hearted soul who enjoyed life, laughed often and loved much.
Our dearest Bob passed away peacefully in his sleep, which was his wish, on October 6, 2023 having just completed his 96th birthday. Although, he is gone from our presence, he will forever be in our hearts. May God bless you our dear father and friend.
Funeral services for Robert will be held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at 11:00 am in the Manila Stake Center Chapel, located at 850 North 900 East, American Fork, Utah. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, morning from 9:00-10:30 am prior to services at the Manila Stake Center. Interment will follow services in the Highland City Cemetery.