William (Bill, Norm, Poppo) Norman Gribble Sr. of Seminole, Florida, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at home surrounded by family at the age of 85. He was born on August 6, 1938, in Altoona, PA, to the late John A. and Lenore J. (Miller) Gribble of Shippensburg, PA.
He is survived by his daughter, Susan J. (Gribble) Sladden of Seminole, FL; sons, William N. Gribble Jr. of Lexington, SC, and Michael R. Gribble of New Port Richey, FL; daughter, Amity H. Gribble of Hudson, NY; five grandchildren, William N. Gribble III, Madison E. Sladden, Gillian A. Sladden, Kohler W. Gribble, and Charles B. Gribble; two great-grandchildren, Elliana G. Gribble and Mason W. Gribble; and siblings, John R. Gribble of Howard, PA, Garry L. Gribble of Kansas City, MO, Gretchen A. Hafer of Chambersburg, PA, Nick A. Gribble of Fayetteville, PA, Susan Allison of Charlottesville, VA, Sharon V. Durff of Walnut Bottom, PA, and Joel M. Gribble of Carlisle, PA.
Bill graduated from Shippensburg High School in 1956, excelling in football, baseball, and wrestling. He was active in the Varsity Club and served as class president, secretary, and treasurer. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17, serving as an interpreter in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, and was honorably discharged after three years. Using the GI Bill, he attended Shippensburg State College. Following college, he pursued a successful sales career spanning over fifty-five years before retiring along with being a Shriner & a Mason for over 50 years.
Bill enjoyed life's simple pleasures, such as big breakfasts and reading non-fiction thrillers. He often had his nose in a John Grisham novel, enjoying a quiet coffee and bagel at Dunkin' Donuts, Einsteins, or poolside. He frequently had 8+ books on reserve at the public library.
He cherished keeping connected with his large circle of family and friends on social media, sharing memories of his adventures and offering ongoing support. His greatest love and pride were his four children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Bill’s courageous battle with cancer showcased his strength of spirit and indomitable positive attitude. Despite the pain, he remained a hero and stayed strong until the end. His presence brought light and joy to many lives.
A Celebration of Life was held at 1:30 PM on Saturday, June 1, at The National Cremation Society, 4945 East Bay Drive, Clearwater, Florida, 33764.
Our families are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
A memorial service will be held in Shippensburg at a future date.