Redondo Beach’s Sibbald lived for family, soccer
Robert “Bobby” Sibbald
Soccer player and construction worker Robert “Bobby” L. Sibbald, of Redondo Beach, died unexpectedly in his sleep, at his home on March 31. He was 46.
Sibbald moved with his family to Redondo Beach when he was 6. His father Robert Sr., a professional soccer player, had signed to play with the LA Aztecs, along with fellow Brits Bobby McAlinden and the legendary George Best.
Sibbald played soccer for the Torrance United club team, which his dad coached and for Redondo Union High School, where his dad also coached. Following high school, Sibbald attended Cal State University Bakersfield on a soccer scholarship.
Sibbald passed on his love of soccer to his son Kyle, who also played at Redondo High. Together, they watched endless numbers of English Premiere League games. The father’s favorite team was Liverpool, while the son stayed loyal to Newcastle, where his granddad was born, making for a fun, but fierce rivalry.
Los Angeles Aztec players, cheerleaders and baller boys. Bobby Sibbald is at lower right, his brother Jon is at lower left and his dad Robert Senior is standing, at right.
Sibbald worked for Elliott and Drinkward Construction for over two decades. He is survived by his son Kyle Sibbald, mum Brenda Sibbald, dad Robert L. Sibbald Sr. and brother Jonathan Sibbald.
A memorial service will be held Saturday April 25 at On The Rocks in Redondo Beach, from noon to 4 p.m. All are welcome to attend. Following the memorial, the Sibbald family will return to England to scatter Robert’s ashes at the Liverpool Football Club Soccer Stadium at Anfield Road, where they will sing the Liverpool anthem “You’ll never walk alone.”
In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to assist Robert’s son Kyle with school expenses. Please visit GoFundMe.com/robertlsibbald. ER