WAUKESHA - Steven M. "Gibby" Gibas of Waukesha died unexpectedly Saturday, Dec. 7, 2002, at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. Steven was born Jan. 28, 1976, in Waukesha. He was 26 years young.

Steve will be remembered for his many things, primarily his love for his mother, Judy Gibas, who supported, encouraged and uplifted him in prayer his entire life. He will be remembered for his huge teddy bear hugs, tender smiles, robust laughter, his loyalty to his family and friends and ready eagerness to lend a hand where needed. And just like his grandfather whom he admired, and who recently passed away, Steve doled out love and affection on his many cousins and friends’ children. His family and friends feel a tremendous loss and will miss him beyond words.

Steve had several interests that he loved, including mudding, camping, fishing, the great outdoors, country music, vintage cars and working on his cars. He was employed as a welder at Dueco in Waukesha.

He is survived by his mother, Judy Gibas; his grandmother, Rose Marie Schwarzmeier; and his aunts and uncles, Jerry (Patti) Schwarzmeier of Wales, Gene (Rosie) Schwarzmeier of Bayside, Jim (Judy) Schwarzmeier of Eau Claire, Joanne Doak of Dodgeville, John Schwarzmeier of Milwaukee, Janet (Gary) Feight of Reeseville, Joe Schwarzmeier of Waukesha, Jeff Schwarzmeier of Oklahoma, Joyce (Bob) Latta of Waukesha and Julie (Jerry) Schiefelbein of Waukesha. He is further survived by his many cousins, Nina and Freddie Howard, Amy, Adam, Jamie and Jay Schwarzmeier, Crystal Feight, Erica, April, Katelynn and Emily Latta, Aric Doak and Jamie, Nicole, Cody and Carlee Schiefelbein.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Jim Gibas; his paternal grandparents, the Schnoebelens; and his maternal grandfather, Harold A. Schwarzmeier.

A visitation will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16, at First Assembly of God Church, 1314 S. Grand Ave., Waukesha. The funeral service will follow at 7 p.m. with the Rev. Verne Hagenbeck officiating the service. Refreshments will follow. Interment will be at Prairie Home Cemetery.