Ruel Gibbs Garretson, known to most as Gib, passed away on May 8, 2025, at the age of 74. Born and raised in Marshfield, Massachusetts, Gib remained deeply rooted in the town he loved throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving partner and wife of nearly 20 years, Jill and his adored dogs, Penny and Cooper. Gib was the devoted father of Sarah and Jessica Garretson and stepfather to Sara Zarro. He was also a cherished Papa to Nathan and Ellie, who brought him deep joy. Gib is also survived by his brother, Gary Garretson, and his sister, Sarah Garretson Lowry, with whom he shared a close bond.

Though he sometimes wore a tough exterior, those who truly knew Gib saw the soft heart and unwavering loyalty beneath the surface. He frequently extended quiet acts of kindness and generosity that often went unnoticed, but never unfelt.

Gib's sharp mind shaped every part of his life. A voracious reader, he was a lifelong learner with a deep curiosity about the world, always eager to explore subjects like history, literature, and anything else that sparked his interest. His passion for mathematics led him to earn a degree in Finance from the University of Massachusetts.

After graduating from Marshfield High School, Gib enlisted in the U.S. Army and served two tours in Vietnam—an experience that deeply shaped his life. In the years that followed, he developed a lasting connection to the country and returned many times, often bringing friends and loved ones to share in the places that had become meaningful to him.

As a steward of the land, Gib brought his strong work ethic and meticulous attention to detail to everything he did. He spent years with the Marshfield Trees and Cemeteries Division and served as the longtime groundskeeper for the estate of Elizabeth Bradford, known locally as Miss B. Many in town also remember him fondly from the Christmas tree farm he co-owned, where families returned year after year to choose the perfect tree.

Gib was perhaps best known as the third-generation owner of Garretson Cranberry Company, a family farm that had been part of Marshfield's landscape for generations. For many years, he worked alongside his father and other family members to continue the legacy of a thriving farm. Whether he was flooding the bogs, harvesting in the fall, or repairing equipment by hand, Gib approached every task with patience, precision, and deep respect for the land.

His love of the farm extended beyond the crops. Gib especially liked hosting local school groups, teaching children how cranberries grow, and took even greater pleasure in the handmade thank-you notes, drawings, and letters they sent him afterward, many of which he kept for years. Beyond his own farm, Gib was a dedicated member of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau, where he served as secretary for many years and made lasting contributions to the farming community.

After his retirement, the cranberry farm was preserved as a natural space for the town to enjoy— a living reminder of Gib's connection to the land and the community he loved.

A lifelong dog lover, Gib always had a dog by his side—none more special than his most recent companion, Josey, his true and constant friend. Gib looked forward to being reunited with Josey, along with his other beloved pets, at the rainbow bridge.

A Celebration of Gib's life will be held at MacDonald Funeral Home, 1755 Ocean Street, Marshfield, Massachusetts, on Sunday, May 25. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00, followed by a service where we invite you to share your memories. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Forever Home Dog Rescue, online at: https://www.foreverhomerescue.org/ or the MSA Coalition, online at: https://missionmsa.org/

For online guest book, driving directions and other helpful information please visit the website macdonaldfuneralhome.com