Gilbert "Gib" Urhahn

Gilbert Gregory Urhahn, 91, of Jackson, MO, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at The Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau, MO. He was born on March 6, 1935, on a farm near Sikeston, MO to the late Matthew and Magdalen (Berghoff) Urhahn.

He grew up in Cape Girardeau, where his family owned a restaurant. He spent his early years helping at that restaurant, working a paper route, and delivering Bunny Bread with his father. He attended St. Mary’s Elementary and High School, class of 1953. During high school, he worked at a Shell Oil filling station and later for Herb’s Texaco Service Station. On January 20, 1953, he enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve and served until January 19, 1961, with an honorable discharge as a CMA3 Petty Officer.

On November 12, 1955, he married Elvira Summers at the United Methodist Church in Sardis, MS. After marriage, they moved to Jackson, MO, where they were blessed with two boys, Greg and Brad. In 1955, he started work at the former Jackson Hosiery Mill as a supervisor until 1964, when he went to work as a machinist for United Shoe Machinery. Later, he was promoted to Sales Representative, then Branch Manager, until his retirement in 1986.

He was a member of the New McKendree UMC, where he served as an usher and a past member of the board.

Gib enjoyed sports, especially Cardinal baseball. He coached baseball, basketball, and flag football as his boys were growing up, which he loved doing. He found pleasure in drawing plans for their houses and finishing their basement. Many fond memories were made taking the family on vacations and going camping.

Later in life, God uncovered in Gib a hidden talent for counted cross-stitch. His favorite creations were in Thomas Kincaid (painter of light) art, Christmas stockings, and tree skirts for his family.

Gib was survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Elvira; His sons, Greg and Brad Urhahn; grandchildren, Courtney (Garrett) Sander, Jackson (Rhianna) Urhahn, and Emilee (Gary) Gauthier; and Great-grandchildren, Cambrie and Laynie Sander.

He was predeceased by his Parents; Grandchildren, Matthew and Blake Urhahn (infants); and his sister, Marilyn A. Burns.

A private graveside service will be held at Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson, MO.