With profound sorrow and yet immense gratitude for the time shared, we announce the passing of Gibbs Denning Schmalzried. Gibby was born in north Kansas City on July 31, 2017, leaving this world on June 5, 2024. Gibbs, affectionately known by many nicknames including Gibby, Gibby Dean, Deaner, and Little Mike, was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew him. His cherubic, squishy cheeks and infectious smile made every greeting a joyous occasion.
Gibby never needed words to communicate; his expressions and spirit spoke volumes. He had an uncanny ability to convey his moods, from the delightful thrill of companionship to the urgent need for his beloved Mea, his ever-faithful dog. A lover of sunshine and giggle-inducing zerberts, Gibby's happiness was as radiant and warming as the sun itself.
Gibbs excelled in the art of relaxation, a true lounge rat who cherished snuggles with family. Television provided Gibbs with a window to joy. He was an avid fan of nostalgic shows like "Alf," "The Brady Bunch," "Full House," and "Little House on the Prairie," but his true comfort came from watching "Daniel Tiger," a show that reflected his own gentle, yet vibrant nature.
Music was a universal language for Gibbs. He adored Wynonna's songs, particularly "Flies on the Butter," and thrived in his adaptive music class in Wichita, where Mrs. Aubrie and Mr. Kenny embraced him with open arms, enriching his life through Zoom. And while he might have had mixed feelings about his mother Amber’s constant serenades, her voice was a constant, comforting presence in his life.
Some of his favorite moments were spent playing video games with his brother Garreth and sharing suckers/popsicles with his sister Rhiesa. He also loved spending time in the sun with Melissa, and no one looked better in sunglasses than Gibby.
Gibby’s life, though brief, was a masterclass in unconditional love. His pure, radiant spirit transcended any limitations, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He taught us the beauty of simple joys and the profoundness of unspoken bonds.
We are forever grateful for the time we had with Gibbs, whose essence was as pure and bright as the sun. His memory will continue to illuminate our lives, reminding us of the profound impact of love and the joy found in every smile and snuggle.
The family is grateful for those of you who took the time to get to know sweet Gibby. We don’t regret not sharing him with those who didn’t take the time to know his precious soul.
Left with an enormous void in their heart are his loving parents John and Amber, Sterling, brothers Wilkerson, Olathe, Garreth and Rayf of the home, his sister Rhiesa of the home, his caregiver and bonus mom Melissa of the home, and last but not least his dog Mea. Also left to mourn him are his grandma Emilie Schmalzried, Dighton, meem Janet Offutt, Dighton, aunt and uncle Ashley and Iver Tokoi, Abilene, and several aunts, uncles, lots of cousins, and other extended family.
Gibby was welcomed home by his grandpa Francis Schmalzried along with great grandpa Raymond and great grandma Ina Bell Wilkerson.
Funeral service will be 10:00 Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary. Graveside service will be 3:00 Saturday, June 8, 2024, in Dighton Cemetery, Dighton. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, at Elliott Mortuary. Family will greet friends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary.
Memorials are suggested to Rice County District Hospital, and Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.