Art enthusiast, volunteer, great-grandmother

Louise Martha Meeder Gibson was born into an artistic, musical family in Chicago on November 6, 1921, the only child of Ludwig Meeder and Martha Hunt Meeder. She died at her home in Upland on May 17, 2017.

During World War II, Louise met George Gibson who had passed the Illinois Bar Exam with a plan to practice law. However, after the Federal Bureau of Investigation approached the recent graduate with an opportunity, Mr. Gibson was assigned to Washington DC. The couple married in 1942 and went directly to an assignment in New York City. Later assignments included Dallas, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Upland. The couple had four children—Kathryn, Carolyn, Janice and George Jr.

An introduction to art at Chaffey College and the Claremont Colleges furthered her artistic endeavors in her home and community. When Mr. Gibson served as mayor of Upland, Mrs. Gibson arranged for citizens to display their artistic endeavors in the mayor’s office. Participants ranged from age five to seniors.

Mrs. Gibson volunteered and served on numerous community committees, including the Scripps Fine Arts Foundation, the Rembrandt Club of Pomona College, Curtain Raisers of the Claremont Colleges, Women’s Auxiliary at SACH and Chaffey Community Art Association.

She traveled extensively throughout her life and made many lifelong friends at home and all over the world. Mrs. Gibson loved keeping in touch with them by writing letters and cards. Other passions included reading, Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Music Center. She started ballet lessons in her 50s and became a big Dodger fan at the age of 81.

Mrs. Gibson was predeceased by her husband, George Gibson; her daughter, Carolyn Gibson Hargrave; and her sweet cat “Kitty.” She is survived by her children Kathryn Vickers (Randy), Jan Bivens and George Jr. (Amy); grandchildren Morgan Hargrave (Hannah), Matthew Hargrave, Jennifer Evans (Chad), Kylie Hopper (Josh), Megan Gibson, Carrie Gibson, Brett Gibson and six great-grandchildren. “Lulu” was known for the fun tea parties she hosted for her grands and great-grands, family shared. She will be greatly missed.

The family would like to thank her loving caregivers and friends for their efforts, care and dedication.

A celebration of life was held for family and friends on June 24 at the George M. Gibson Senior Center in Upland. A private ceremony took place earlier in Hana, Maui, Hawaii.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Louise M. Gibson to the Wananalua Congregational Church, PO Box 188, Hana, HI 96713, or to a charity of your choice.