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LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – A generation of young men in the 1970s and 80s was dramatically influenced by Bob Kibler. Kibler, who passed away Thursday morning, for many years, served as a scoutmaster for Boy Scouts and leaves quite the legacy of developing young men.
“He was a mentor, a person who made a difference in my live and the lives of many other youth,” said Bill Neal. Neal, now in his 60s, went on to become a successful businessman.
Kibler, with much support and help from his wife Elsie, was scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 435 and 429 from 1970 until 1984. “Bob was my scout master from 1972 to 1976 when my family moved,” said Neal.
“We’ve always been proud of Bob here at WLAF, because, at one time, he was one of our own. Bob’s voice graced the airwaves over AM 1450 in the 1960s,” said Jim Freeman of WLAF.
Kibler was a veteran serving in the U.S. Army from 1953-1956. He was a combat engineer.
As a scoutmaster, several scouts earned the rank of Eagle Scout under Kibler’s leadership. “With his help and support, I received my Eagle,” said Neal.
Professionally, Kibler was vice-president of First Federal Savings and Loan. Later, he was Black Lung Coordinator at REACHS, now known as CHET.
Kibler was quite the man of faith. He was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of La Follette where his family receives friends Friday from 5pm until 7pm with the funeral at 7pm. He served as a deacon for decades, on committees and chaired committees.
In the summer of 2020, Kibler was fittingly honored by the Tennessee State House of Representatives, 111th General Assembly. He was recognized for his distinguished service to his community.
Neal summed up Kibler in a nutshell “he was a good man.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 06/09/2023-7AM)
Bob was an inspiration to alot of us leaders through the years. Without people like him and Elsie taking the time out of their lives to dedicate to others, we wouldn’t have Scouting today.
And his character is reflected by his Scouts today.
We salute you sir.
Scouting and Campbell County have lost a true Hero.
“The most worthwhile thing is to try to put happiness in the lives of others”_Lord Bayden Powell
The legacy you leave behind, inspires us all. You will be truly missed.⚜️
Our love and condolences go out to Rob and his family. God has taken another Angel home.
What a legacy! Rest in peace Scout Master Kibler and many prayers for the family. May God wrap His arms around you and bring peace and comfort.
He influenced and guided so many along the way. He loved all his scouts as if they were his own sons. I had several “big brothers” growing up, many that I am still in contact to this day. He enjoyed sharing stories of his “boys” with me over the years. They meant so much to him. Scouting always brought a smile to his face. He was so excited to talk about how close his granddaughter, Macy Kibler,is to earning the rank of Eagle. I will miss those conversations most of all. The memories we shared through scouting will never be forgotten and will cherished throughout the rest of my life. The lessons learned will be passed on to the next generation, along with a lot of really good stories shared around a campfire.
Well done thy good and faithful servant