Gilbert "Gib" Bolen

Gilbert "Gib" Bolen Jr. went peacefully in his sleep to be with his Lord on January 6th, 2013 at his home in Makanda. Gib was born August 26, 1932 to Gilbert and Lottie Mae (Ferrell) Bolen. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bill and his sister Dot. He married the love of his life, Mary Ann Boyle August 23, 1953. They had two children, Jerry Bolen of Desoto and Dana Simpson (Brad) of Desoto; two grandsons, Jerry Lee Bolen Jr. (Rachel) of Carbondale and Jesse Simpson of Desoto and one great granddaughter Hailey Bolen of Carbondale and many nephews and nieces, and great nephews and great nieces all who loved their Uncle Buddy dearly. He was a 1950 graduate of Carbondale High school, playing football all four years. He joined the United States Air Force in 1952 training as a jet engine mechanic in Texas and later serving at Chandler AFB in Arizona until he was honorably discharged in 1956. Gib grew up in the greatest generation and his patriotism could never be questioned. He loved his country, heart and soul. He was very well known among Southern Illinois residents for his mastery in restoring antique furniture, learning the craft from his Father. He worked out of his shop on Lewis Lane and later on Raccoon Valley road in Makanda for 60 years. His craftsmanship and attention to detail was incomparable in the region and will be sorely missed. Gib loved Carbondale and his recall of Carbondale history was phenomenal. He organized and was President of the Station Carbondale Depot Restoration Committee for many years and was the driving force in fundraising for the Conductor statue, working tirelessly in completing the restoration project. Gib also loved his church, Murdale Baptist, and was a Deacon for many years. His dedication and willingness to always help someone in need will be missed by the community and the congregation. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at Murdale Baptist Church in Carbondale, with Reverend Paul Hicks officiating. Interment will be at Oakland Cemetery in Carbondale, with Military Rites. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 8, 2013 at the church. Memorial Donations are the preferred form of remembrance and may be made to Murdale Baptist Church and will be accepted by Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale.



Service:



10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 9, 2013



Murdale Baptist Church Carbondale, IL







Visitation:



5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 8, 2013



Murdale Baptist Church Carbondale, IL