Mark Kibler was born in Dothan, Alabama Feb. 3, 1968 to Norma Stephens Kibler and William Harold Kibler. He grew up on his family’s farm along with his brother Billy and sisters Robin and Laura. Mark helped his parents on the farm and developed a solid work ethic from them, along with a strong faith in the Lord and love for his family.
Mark always had a passion for reading and learned how to read from his Aunt Doris, who endlessly read comic books to him as a child. He also loved to hear his Uncle James tell him about his service in the Army Air Corps during World War II.
After graduating high school, Mark moved to Montgomery to study at Huntingdon College, where he met Beth. They dated for four years while in college and were married at Saint Bernard Abbey in Cullman. They were married for 26 years, and together for 30 years.
Having Gabriel Kibler was the highlight of his life, and Mark’s world revolved around his son. He loved nothing more than spending time with Gabriel, talking, sharing stories, and listening to Gabriel’s stories, too. Mark loved reading the comics Gabriel drew, and was so happy Gabriel used his creative talents. He especially loved going back to Dothan and spending time with Gabriel and his family at the farm.
Mark started working in the restaurant industry in college and made it his career. The last 16 years he worked with Jim ‘N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q at both the Jasper and Cullman stores. He loved being part of both communities.
Mark is survived by his wife Beth; his beloved son Gabriel; sister Robin Kibler; brother and sister-in-law Billy and Gwen Kibler; brother-in-law and sister Jack and Laura Populorum; nephews Wesly Kibler and Ian Populorum; Beth’s parents Robert and Kathryn Atkins; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Bob Atkins and Ana Reinert, and David and Jennifer Atkins; and niece Rose Atkins.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents Norma Stephens Kibler and William Harold Kibler.
In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to the Gabriel Kibler College Fund at Premier Bank of the South in Cullman, Alabama or Sacred Heart School.
