Gilbert "Gib" Baechler

Gilbert I. 'Gib' Baechler, 82, of Pekin passed away at 8:30 am Monday, March 10, 2008 at his home with his family at his side. Gib was born January 3, 1926 in Momence, IL to Clarence and Neva (Dayton) Baechler. He married Donna Worner on June 5, 1955 in Forest City, IL. Surviving are his wife, Donna of Pekin and two daughters, Lee Ann (Russ) Schweizer of Crystal Lake, IL and Nikki Baechler of Peoria, IL, two granddaughters, Gabriela and Ysabel Schweizer both of Crystal Lake, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and two sisters. Gib was a member of First United Methodist Church in Pekin. Gib graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1951. He received his M.S. degree from Illinois State University and has additional post-graduate hours at the University of Illinois. He was quarterback and captain of the football team. He was a former member and avid golfer of Sunset Hills Country Club in Pekin. Gib began his teaching career in 1951 at Dee Mack High School where he started the football program. From 1957 -1967 he coached football, basketball and was Dean of Boys at Pekin Community High School. From 1967-1983 Gib was Director of Admissions, Records and Registration at Illinois Central College. He retired in 1983 after 32 years in education. Gib enjoyed spending vacations with family and close friends in Longboat Key, FL. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.