Gilbert Allan “Skip” Cavins

Gilbert Allan Cavins was born to Harvey and Helen Cavins on June 23rd, 1934 in Rock Island, IL. Somewhere along the way he acquired the nickname "Skip". No one seems to know where it came from, but it stuck. Like all good American Rock Island boys, Skip spent much time exploring the Mississippi River railroad yards, bridges, and locks and many other places his mother did not need to know about. However, he was also diligent at school and began showing his natural work ethos and ability to work well with everyone.

He took these qualities to St. Ambrose Academy, where another ability began to stand out: athletics. Skip played many sports and was good at all of them. His capability and leadership led him to be Captain of several St. Ambrose teams. He also found time to accompany Donna Frances Becker of Davenport, Iowa, to a dance.

Skip's scholastic and athletic abilities led him to Denver, Colorado, where he received a basketball scholarship to Regis University. Skip succeeded in Business School and again became a team Captain.

Upon graduation, Skip and Donna married. This marriage produced four children and a wonderful life. He joined the US Navy in 1958 and served as an Officer in San Diego, serving on destroyers and in land-based operations.

After his service in the Navy, Skip took a job with American Hospital Supply, which brought Skip and Donna to Columbus and Westerville, OH. Again, his work ethic and decency to all people resulted in great business success and many lifelong friendships.

In retirement, Skip kept busy with golf, tennis, and other athletic pursuits. Donna took up golf, which resulted in many happy rounds. He also spent much time helping friends, family, and neighbors. He and Donna also volunteered at St. Ann's Hospital for twenty years, helping people of all kinds find their way. He also volunteered for 10 years at Westerville WARM ministry.  Another favorite retirement activity of Skip’s was being a volunteer coach for the girls and boys tennis teams at Westerville North High School. Decades of this unwavering concern for and understanding of all people resulted in a vast world of true friends from all walks of life, that lasted forever.

Skip built a great life for his family and an eternal bond with Donna. He was a great father, grandfather, and great grandfather who always taught by his own example. Ultimately, time took away many of Skip's abilities, but it could not touch his genuine caring and respect for all people. Because of this, he was a favorite among doctors, nurses, and caregivers. Skip passed away on March 1st, 2025. He was loved by so many and an example for all.

Skip is survived by his wife, Donna

His four children, Dan Cavins, Susan MacLeod (Mike MacLeod), Tim Cavins (Lauren Cavins), and Paul Cavins

His grandchildren, Anne Lozano (Brittany Thompson), Matt MacLeod, Elizabeth MacLeod, David Cavins (Betania Cavins), Katie Cavins, and Sarah Cavins

His great-grandchildren, Adam Lozano and Luna Cavins

Visitation will be held Friday, March 7th from 3-5 p.m. at Moreland Funeral Home and Saturday, March 8th from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment Resurrection Cemetery.