Harold Raymond Tibbetts passed away October 12, 2015.

Harold Raymond Tibbetts, of Traverse City was called home by the Great Spirit on October 12, 2015. He leaves behind his loving wife of 70 years Barbara Jean (Tanks-Horden) Tibbetts, married October 30, 1945; Children: Dennis (Pamela) Tibbetts, Cynthia (Michael) Hagan, Michael (Ruth) Tibbetts and Heather (David) Mathie; Grandchildren: Erik and Ryan Zimmerman, Emily Hagan, Chad, Shannon and Washakie Tibbetts, Jason and Travis Tibbetts, Ashleigh, Jacob, Nicole and Monica Mathie; and 14 Great-Grandchildren. Proceeded in death by his parents George and Effie Tibbetts, Sister Grace Schwartz, and step-grandson Thomas Hagan.

Born in Detroit, June 28, 1926, Harold volunteered for the Navy during WWII as a Gunners Mate and remained active in the VFW Post #140 for many years afterward, performing induction rituals for fellow armed services members.

He may not have a bridge named after him or a statue in a park, but to us he was a great man. In his 89 years, Harold lived life to the fullest and made many lasting memories for his family to now cherish.

His love for camping trips to northern Michigan brought his wife and young family close to nature. His passion for sailing on Lake St. Clair inspired a spirit of adventure. He loved landscaping. As an amateur artist his oil paintings of seabirds, teepee villages and wilderness landscapes hang as reminders to appreciate the simple beauty of everyday life. And as a hobby woodworker the handmade toys he gave away as gifts to his grandchildren and the people of Peshawbestown are testament to the bigness of his heart.

As a Native American of Ojibwe and Shoshone descent, Harold lived his life with pride and dignity. He was a loving family man. He will long be remembered for his quiet strength, sly sense of humor and smiling soul. He will be dearly missed!

There will be a memorial service in the spring.