Thelma G. McKibben, age 89, of Valparaiso, IN passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Thelma was born in 1935 in Philadelphia, PA as the first born and beloved daughter of Henry and Jennie (Busico) Giambattista who proceeded her in death. She is survived by siblings: Elaine (Joe) Leibrandt, Henry (Louise) Giambattista, and Gerald (Joan) Giambattista. Thelma attended Lower Merion High School where she wrote for the school newspaper. She graduated from Penn State University in 1958 with a degree in English. It was at Penn State that she met and married her true love, Sam McKibben, who preceded her in death. Together Sam & Thelma raised their three children: Dave (Christina) McKibben of Tucson, Kathy (the late Tom) Levandoski of Valparaiso, Dan (Carrie) McKibben of LaPorte; six grandchildren: David Swickard, Kellin Lambirth, David (Bethany) McKibben, Jason (Jaymee) McKibben, Eric (Daisha) McKibben, and Madison (Eric) McClintock and four great grandchildren Alice, Jackson, Ben and Beau McKibben, and many loving nieces & nephews.
Thelma was first and foremost a dedicated mother and wife, but she served many times as a substitute teacher filling in for several leaves of absence. Thelma was an avid bridge player who was instrumental in forming a bridge club that played together for nearly 60 years. She was a member of AAUW, a member of the original group of caring people to serve as CASA Volunteers, a member of PEO EG Chapter, an active member of several committees at her former church, a voracious reader and member of several book clubs, and served as an officer for the Meridian Woods community.
A visitation will be held Friday, February 14th from 1 – 3 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with memorial service beginning at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Family & Youth Services Bureau, 450 Vale Park Road, Valparaiso, IN 46385.
GUESTBOOK
Thelma and Sam were very special to us. They patiently taught us to play bridge. We enjoyed many games and lunches with them! Farewell dear friend. I know Sam is happy to be with you once more! -Andrew and Bonnie Hudson Hunter
Kathy, I am so sorry for your loss. It was a pleasure and joy to meet your mom at the iron infusions. She really brought a big smile to my heart. Take care, -Jodi Edgecomb-Taylor
I am glad I met Thelma in Chapter EG, PEO. I always enjoyed our phone chats and her insight and perspective on life. -Janet Easterly
I’ll always remember Kathy’s “Kib’s” parents sitting in the stands cheering us on - often sitting with my parents cheering us on! Since Kib and I played sports all year round (volleyball, basketball, and baseball) during high school and then basketball at VU, this was an extremely regular occurrence, and after time it felt like we were everyone’s kids. I certainly felt that from Thelma! Always ready with a big smile and open arms, she welcomed us into not only her home but her heart. I will always remember her and Sam so, so fondly. My sincerest condolences for your loss - it is certainly mine, too. -Aileen Buckley
