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Longtime Palo Altan Ian M. Cribbs dies at 76

Ian M. Cribbs, a Palo Alto resident for the past 35 years, died April 13 following an extended illness. He was 76.

Cribbs was an attorney but he had a range of interests that included being a writer, sailor and Shakespeare buff, among numerous others, according to his wife of many years, Anne Warner Cribbs.

He was born in Chicago, Ill. He received a B.A. from Stanford University and a law degree from Santa Clara University. He practiced law for 15 years before becoming a full-time writer.

His other interests besides his family included gardening, women's basketball, folk music, collies and coaching youth sports.

"Ian loved sports for the values of mutual respect, teamwork and the importance of effort that they promote," Anne Cribbs recalled of Ian's values. "He believed strongly in the ideals of the Olympic Games, in particular their celebration of people's potential for excellence and the hopeful bridges that the Olympics build across cultures and borders," she said. Anne is a former Olympic swimmer and was a key organizer of the effort to bring the Olympics to the Bay Area several years ago.

"What linked all of Ian's interests was an abiding love for people — their spirits and their struggles. Ian believed deeply in the importance of friendship."

Cribbs is also survived by his brother, Michael Cribbs; by eight daughters (Alexandria, Christina, Blair, Heidi, Kindel, Melanie, Kyle and Dee); a son, John; 24 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held Wednesday afternoon at the Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. Contributions to the Ian M. Cribbs Memorial Fund at Stanford University can be sent to Gift Processing, Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center, 326 Galvez St., Stanford or online at givingtostanford.stanford.edu.