Jack Kibbie, a prominent figure in Iowa politics and a Korean War veteran, passed away at the age of 95 in Emmetsburg. Former colleagues and friends, including ex-Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack and Patty Judge, shared their heartfelt memories of Kibbie, highlighting his dedication to rural Iowa and his significant contributions to the state legislature.
Remembering a Leader: Tributes from Former Colleagues
Former Governor Tom Vilsack, who served alongside Kibbie in the Iowa Senate, fondly recalled his time working with the late senator. Vilsack praised Kibbie’s deep-rooted appreciation for his farming background and noted his powerful presence in the Iowa Legislature. Vilsack emphasized that Kibbie’s words carried weight and commanded attention, underscoring the respect and admiration he garnered among his peers.
Patty Judge, another former member of the Iowa Senate who later became lieutenant governor, echoed Vilsack’s sentiments, lauding Kibbie as a true leader who championed rural Iowa. Judge highlighted Kibbie’s unwavering commitment to advocating for the interests of rural communities, emphasizing his profound understanding of the challenges they faced. Her words reflected the profound impact Kibbie had on his colleagues and constituents, embodying his legacy as a dedicated public servant.
A Life of Service: From the Korean War to the Iowa Legislature
Jack Kibbie’s journey from a tank commander in the Korean War to a respected figure in Iowa politics was marked by a steadfast commitment to public service. His experiences during the war, as he recounted in an interview with Iowa PBS, offered a glimpse into the challenges he faced and the resilience he demonstrated in the face of adversity. Kibbie’s wartime service shaped his perspective and instilled in him a sense of duty that would define his subsequent career in public office.
Following his military service, Kibbie embarked on a political career that spanned several decades, culminating in his tenure as president of the Iowa Senate. His leadership in championing the creation of Iowa’s community college system in 1965 underscored his vision for advancing education and opportunity in the state. Kibbie’s unwavering dedication to his constituents and his role as a voice for rural Iowa solidified his reputation as a principled and effective legislator.
As Kibbie reflected on his decision not to seek reelection in 2012, he expressed his enduring love for the political process and his enduring commitment to serving the people of Iowa. His humor and humility, evident in his remarks about aging and staying engaged in public service, endeared him to colleagues and constituents alike.
Jack Kibbie’s legacy extended beyond the realm of politics, as evidenced by his instrumental role in supporting veterans during the Iraq War. His efforts to establish Veterans Committees in the Iowa Senate and House and ensure that the Iowa National Guard’s Adjutant General addressed the state legislature annually underscored his unwavering dedication to honoring and supporting those who served their country.
The passing of Kibbie’s wife, Kay, in 2022 marked a poignant moment in his life, underscoring the personal sacrifices and challenges he faced throughout his years of public service. Jack Kibbie’s indelible impact on Iowa politics and his enduring legacy as a dedicated public servant will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew him.
