John C. Mckibben

John C. McKibben, Sr., 85, of Warren, died Friday, December 7, 2007 at Community Skilled Health Care Centre in Warren. He was born September 14, 1922 in Ellwood City, Pa., the son of Daniel and Della (Carroll) McKibben.

Mr. McKibben was a 1940 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School and attended Youngstown College, Oklahoma A&M, and the University of Southern California. He retired from the United States Air Force in 1979 after 37 years of duty, achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel and serving as a command pilot and pilot instructor. Later, he worked in the Trumbull County auditor's office for 10 years, and the Rockwell Co. in Newton Falls for 13 years.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he had served as a deacon, elder, and trustee. He was past exalted ruler of Elks Lodge 295; past commander of Clarence Hyde Post, American Legion; a life member of the Air Force Association and the Reserve Officers Association; a past president of the Sons of the American Revolution, Ethan Allen chapter; and served four terms on the board of the Military Federal Credit Union in Columbus.

He was awarded a certificate of merit to the Blood Donor Hall of Fame by the American Red Cross. In addition, he and Betty together were very active in the Warren Olympic Club for over 30 years.

Surviving are his wife, Betty (Wile) McKibben, whom he married September 18, 1948; three children: John C. (Esther) McKibben, Jr. of Southington, Richard J. (Anne) McKibben of Westminster, Md., and Jill A. (John) Walsh of Marcellus, N.Y., nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. His parents precede him in death.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 15, 2007 at First Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Rusty Cowden officiating. Inurnment will follow in the church's columbarium. The family will meet friends at a reception in the church's fellowship hall after the service. In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made to the Endowment Fund and/or the Scholarship Fund of First Presbyterian Church, 256 Mahoning Ave. N.W., Warren, Ohio 44483.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland & Son Funeral Services Co., 271 N. Park Ave., Warren, Ohio 44483. Please visit www.mcfarlandfuneral.com to view this obituary and send condolences.