Cover photo for James Gilbert "Gib" Wakeman's Obituary
James Gilbert "Gib" Wakeman Profile Photo
1945 James 2025

James Gilbert "Gib" Wakeman

September 23, 1945 — August 13, 2025

Bedford

James Gilbert "Gib" Wakeman, 79, of Bedford, Pennsylvania was dispatched to Heaven by God on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at UPMC Altoona Hospital, Altoona.

Gib was born in Cumberland on September 23, 1945, son of the late Hiram and Mary Ruth (Beydler) Wakeman. Also, preceded in death by his brother, Fred Wakeman and sister-in-law Dixie Defibaugh.

On June 4, 1967, he married his wife Susan (Defibaugh) Wakeman, of Bedford. This concludes 58 years of marriage.

He is survived by daughter- Tammy Wakeman, of Bedford; son- Scott (Stacey) Wakeman, of Bedford; grandson- Levi (Emily) Wakeman - granddaughter-Ramsey Wakeman, and great-grandson-Jackson James Wakeman.

Gib and his wife worshipped together at the Tulls Hill Bible church. 

He loved America and served his country in the United States Army, from 1963- 1969.

Gib owned and operated Wakeman trucking and was in business with his family for more than 60 years. In the 70's he branched out into towing and recovery, with wrecker service. He was well known for his good service and care. He leaves a legend of good work ethics and fairness to his family and employees. His quiet strength and peaceful way of life served him and his family well! He would walk in a room of chaos and bring everyone to laughter by quietly saying "I think it will snow!" Gib was all about trucking, Macks and the color green. He also thought..."Without Family, You Have Nothing!"

A viewing will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 2-6 PM and on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 10-11 AM at Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes, Bedford.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 11 AM at Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes, Bedford with Pastor Steve Corbett officiating.

Interment will be at Bedford County Memorial Park, Bedford, PA.

Military rites accorded to the Fort Bedford Honor Guard.

Online condolences may be expressed at http://www.geiselfuneral.com/. Arrangements entrusted to Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes, Bedford, Pennsylvania

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James Gilbert "Gib" Wakeman, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Public Viewing

Sunday, August 17, 2025

2:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)

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Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Inc., Bedford

330 E. Pitt St., Bedford, PA 15522

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Public Viewing

Monday, August 18, 2025

10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)

Add to Calendar

Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Inc., Bedford

330 E. Pitt St., Bedford, PA 15522

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Funeral Service

Monday, August 18, 2025

11:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

Add to Calendar

Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Inc., Bedford

330 E. Pitt St., Bedford, PA 15522

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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