Bermuda Fire Service officers gathered yesterday to mourn the passing of one of their own ? the ?gentle giant? Michael Cleveland ?Gibbo? Gibbons, Sr.

Those gathered for the funeral at St. Paul AME church heard that Mr. Gibbons was a well respected member of the Fire Service for 28 years.

While all knew him as an imposing, tall figure, those closest to him said he was most admired for his strength of character.

Mr. Gibbons, 55, passed away due to illness last Thursday.

He was the son of the late Cleveland ?Skins? Gibbons and the late Sylvia ?Momma Sissy? Gibbons Brangman.

?He was a humble person who loved reading, swimming, fishing, North Village football team and spending time with his family,? speaker Dawnette White said yesterday.

?He loved to travel and eat, especially (his wife?s) home-cooked meals, cakes and his morning coffee. Despite his large frame, Michael was perceived as a gentle giant. Michael was loved by everyone.?

Mr. Gibbons joined the Fire Service in 1976.

In January this year, however, he took pre-retirement time off in order to get some rest and relaxation. His death came as a blow to his colleagues.

?This community particularly owes much to firefighter Michael Gibbons for his 28 years of loyal and dedicated service to the people of Bermuda,? Chief Fire Officer Vincent Hollinsid said. ?That?s why the news of his illness and death was met with such shock.?

Mr. Hollinsid continued: ?Chuck Watson called him ?The Beast? because of his immense physical strength. But Gibbo was not limited to, or admired for, his physical strength only. It was his strength of character that made us respect and admire him the way that we did for so many years.

?He was a man of rare personal qualities, generous and full of kindness. It is going to be difficult to assess our loss, but one thing we can be certain of, is that he will remain in our thoughts and hearts forever.?