Square dancing has lost one of its strongest supporters. On Dec 25, 2006 our dear friend, Gilbert (Gib) Bradley surrounded by his family, passed away peacefully at the QEII.

Gib was a lover of music and interacting with people. Thus Square Dancing was a perfect fit. Gib began square dancing with the Starduster class of 1994. Although he quickly picked up all the moves Gib continued to attend beginners classes for many more years after his graduation in order to meet all potential new dancers. It was here in the class of 1996 the we first met Gib and his wife Dee. They were there as class angels and angel he was.

Gib was that person that for most of us comes along once in a life time. He was very out going and made friends with everyone he met. Gib had such an outgoing personality that when it came to dancing his presence along with his great communication ability inspired new dancers to relax and enjoy the entire activity. We were no exception as we became friends immediately with him and Dee. This is a friendship that grew very strong over the next couple of years and one we will cherish for the rest of our lives.

During our first few years of dancing we spent much time traveling to other clubs both locally and around the province to attend many dances, some for the enjoyment of dancing and others to support clubs with their fund raisers. Most we as a result of Gib. To put it simply Gib was an organizer. He would see a flier about a special dance or even a regular dance and get excited to attend. He would then start recruiting other to attend with him. His excitement about attending would be so great it spread to all he talked to and soon there were groups of people traveling to an event be it a local event to a weekend away.

His love for music really came to the forefront every time he got on the dance floor. Every time Gib set foot on the dance floor everyone in his square and anyone watching could see that he was very much enjoying every moment. He brought excitement to the dance and made everyone he danced with, from the new beginner in class to the experienced dancer come away from the square thinking what a great dance they just had.

Gib was also the first person there to help when things needed to be done. If we were having a special dance his name was always one of the first on the sign up sheet. Gib was the person that if something needed to be done it was no good to tell him he didn't need to go out of his way to help for as soon as he heard there was something to be done he was there ready to help.

We personally got to know Gib the best when we had the dance shop and used to take it on the road. As much as we told him he didn't have to help Gib was always there to help from the time we started loading to leave, during the set up and take down and unloading when home. We had some great trips together around NS, NB, & PEI., us promoting the dance shop while Gib promoted Square Dancing to everyone he met.

Beside his love for the music and dancing Gib loved the fellowship that came with the activity.

The next time you are at a Square Dance and they end the evening with the friendship ring remember Gib as the words to this song very much express a strong part of the make up of our beloved friend Gilbert A. Bradley.

We miss you Gib