Obituary of Edward S. Hibyan

Celebration of Life: Edward Hibyan

Edward Hibyan was born on July 6, 1931, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Peter and Elsie Hibyan, immigrants from Czechoslovakia who came to America seeking opportunity and a better life. His father worked as a skilled machinist with Producto Machine Company and the values of hard work, perseverance, and craftsmanship were deeply rooted in the household.

Edward grew up during the difficult years following the Great Depression. In those times, families relied on determination and sacrifice to move forward. His two older brothers, Walter and Ervin left school early, served in the military, and later followed their father's trade as machinists. For many young men of that era, the expected path was simple: finish high school, find steady work, and begin building a life.

But Edward's path would take a different direction.

With encouragement from school counselors—and through his own initiative and determination—he applied to college and was accepted to the University of Bridgeport. There, he pursued a degree in mechanical engineering, opening a door to a future that had not always seemed possible. His decision marked the beginning of a life defined by curiosity, innovation, and quiet determination.

After graduating, Edward began his career at Sikorsky Aircraft as a mechanical engineer. Over the years, he became a helicopter rotor systems engineer and an integral part of the engineering teams responsible for advancing helicopter technology. During his career, he secured 12 U.S. patents. His work helped shape one of the most important aircraft in modern aviation history: the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, which continues to serve as a mainstay of the United States military.

Edward's talent and dedication led to significant innovations in his field. During his career, he secured twelve U.S. patents for engineering advancements, a testament to his creativity, persistence, and technical skill. He was instrumental in many of Sikorsky Aircrafts advancements and innovations - from his pioneering work to introduce computer aided design systems to the development and introduction of graphite composite materials. His contributions helped advance rotorcraft engineering and left a lasting mark on aviation.

Yet Edward's life was defined by far more than professional achievement.

In April 1958, he married the love of his life, Rita Mary Finn. Together they built a strong and devoted partnership grounded in faith, commitment, and love. They raised two sons, Edward Jr. and Gary, creating a home centered on family, responsibility, and opportunity.

Edward took great pride in guiding his sons as they grew. He believed deeply in education and carefully helped them think about their futures—encouraging them to pursue majors and careers aligned with their talents and interests. Through his example, he instilled in them the importance of integrity, hard work, and doing the right thing.

Outside of work, Edward found joy in life's simpler pleasures. He was an avid fisherman and treasured the time he spent fishing with his sons. He also enjoyed gardening and sharing those moments with friends. These quiet activities reflected the kind of man he was—patient, thoughtful, and deeply appreciative of time spent with family and friends.

Edward and Rita were devout Catholics whose faith guided their lives. He believed strongly in his responsibility to his family and lived with a clear moral compass. Through his actions—at home, at work—he demonstrated the values of honesty, humility, and dedication.

Edward Hibyan was a hardworking and gifted engineer, but above all he was a good man. His life showed how talent, faith, love, and integrity can shape not only a career, but a family and a legacy.

His innovations continue to fly in the skies today, serving those who protect our nation. But perhaps his greatest legacy lives on in the lives of his children, the strength of the family he built with Rita, and the example he set for all who knew him.

Survivors include two loving sons, Edward S. Hibyan Jr. and his wife Zoe of Pensacola, FL, and Gary P. Hibyan of Grafton, MA, four cherished grandchildren, Stuart, Mark, Brian and Brooke Hibyan as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Christian Burial service and Interment will be held privately at a later date. To leave an online condolence, visit http://www.abriola.com