Thomas Gibbar

Thomas Richard Gibbar, 76, of Perryville passed away Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Saint Louis University Hospital.

He was born Aug. 16, 1947, in Perryville to Harold and Zita French Gibbar, the third of their four children.

Thomas and Helen Pingel Gibbar were married on Dec. 14, 1968, at St. Vincent's Catholic Church and enjoyed 56 years of marriage.

He was a member of the U.S. Army and a veteran of the Vietnam War. Thomas was a charter member of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge No. 2701 and performed numerous roles for the organization at local, district, state and national levels, including treasurer, leading knight, exalted ruler and national district deputy.

Thomas started his professional career as both a government and a corporate auditor before opening Gibbar Bookkeeping and Tax, which operated out of Perry Plaza for more than 30 years. His clients knew that his door was always open and would often visit between appointments to chew the fat and discuss events affecting Perryville and Perry County. He also volunteered for both Perry County Behavioral Health Service and Senior Citizens Association.

Thomas was well known as a chef, able to throw together dishes without needing a recipe (to the delight and frustration of those around him). He loved cooking for his friends and relatives, and he and Helen hosted many dinners that were enjoyed by all who attended. He was also ridiculously lucky; there was many a "board" won by him at the Perryville Elks Lodge.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Helen; daughter, Sabrina of Atlanta; son, Gregory, and his fiancee, Erin; brother, Roger, and sister-in-law, Karen.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Harold Gibbar Jr.; and sister, Dorothy Gibbar Wibbenmeyer.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 10, at Ford and Young Funeral Home in Perryville and will continue from 8 to 9 a.m. Monday, March 11, at the funeral home.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Monday, March 11, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville, with the Rev. Joe Geders, C.M., officiating. Military honors will follow, provided by the Delta Team and American Legion Post 133.

Memorial contributions may be given to American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.