Ian P. Hibbins

Ian P. Hibbins, a loving father, husband, grandfather, brother, and uncle, died Monday, September 25, 2017. He was 62 years old.

Ian was born February 19, 1955 in Wallasey, England, to the late William A. Hibbins and Mary E. Hibbins (Ferrie). Ian lived in various states before settling in Upstate New York, where he attended Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Ian worked as an electrical engineer at various companies, including GE R&D, Rupprecht & Patashnick, Thermo Fisher Scientific, TransTech Systems, and most recently, KAPL, where he met many people he admired and spoke highly of.

Ian loved the ocean, golfing, boating, and being outdoors. He and his family loved their annual camping trips, and boating on Sacandaga. Ian also loved sailing with his brother and sister-in-law. He was a "hot rod" car fanatic, and really enjoyed attending antique car shows. He often complained about Lily, the family's rat terrier, but considered her a loyal companion. He was a fan of the NY Yankees and a dedicated supporter of the Buffalo Bills. Ian often talked about his dreams of retiring and moving to the ocean.

If you were lucky enough to know him, you would have seen Ian was so much more than anything that could be put into writing. Those who had the honor of spending time with him will tell you they loved his goofy smile, infectious laugh, and genuine positivity that he shared regardless of his own struggles. Ian's positive outlook, humor, and fluent French are some of the things his family will remember most about him. His daughters thought of him as their hero and best friend. His son considered Ian to be the father he never had, and is grateful for the many life lessons and skills he has today. Ian was always supportive of his wife, and rarely said no to her. Ian could build anything, and solve any problem. He was a "Mr. Fix It" who rarely sat still. His intelligence had everyone running to him for answers. Occasionally if he didn't have an answer right away, you'd hear him laugh and say "Rats!" Ian was creative, talented, and wise. He was an incredibly generous and caring man who always put others first. He worked hard his entire life, and we can only hope he's now relaxing in a hammock, finally taking a well-earned break.

Ian is predeceased by his father, William, and mother, Mary. Ian is survived by his wife, Gail, his children Duane (Colleen) Messina, Kate and Emily, his brother Stewart (Karen) of Howell, NJ, his sister Linda (Herbert) Rorer of Pennsylvania, his grandson Mason and granddaughters Payton and Karsyn, and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ian's name to the charity of your choice