Wednesday, August 9, 2023
To the Gidding's Family,
I've been trying to locate Bob or someone from his family to share my deepest appreciation for everything Bob gave to me in my youth.
Bob gave me one of my greatest treasure as a child. He was kind, supportive, funny and gave his time to me and many other kids like me in his community.
I can see him clearly as if it was yesterday, his enthusiasm beamed as he watched us succeed on the softball field. I miss his smile and delight in his eyes when we did well, and his encouragement when thing didn't.
Because of Bob and many like him in my childhood I became a better person, driven to give back to my community. I know Bob and people like him made personal sacrifices, including time spend with their family.
I once overheard a conversation Bob had that stuck with me, Bob said "If "we" don't do this who will do this for our kids and other kids after them".
I got your back on this one Bob, I give back every opportunity I get. If an opportunity doesn't present itself - make one.
Part of me wishes I could have seen him one more time, jumping up and down outside the dugout with excitement and pride for his team. A bigger part of me appreciates the time he shared as a gift he passed on through me.
I may not have been one of his kids.... but I was one of his kids. Bob did more for me, he wasn't just my coach. He was my mentor, he showed me by example.
To anyone that ever wondered why he would pick up a scrappy kid from the wrong side of the neighborhood and give them a ride to his home and offer a place for them to sit and wait while he had dinner with his family.
He did this for me because he saw me riding my bike from Rensselaer, up to to Hampton Manor just to play softball. He saw me a couple of times when he realize what I was doing, he added me to his daily routine.
Together we loved the sport - Forever I will love the man. I will always tear up when I hear, Let Me In Coach..."
You sent
Bob Gibbins may you Rest In Peace.
Melody Merkley Towslee Catcher / Rover
