George Tobias

While surrounded by his family, George Steve Tobias, age 85, passed away on July 21, 2022, at his home on Stuart Lake. George, the son of Willis Lee Tobias and Violet Opal (nee Skaggs) Tobias, was born on May 23,1937, in Antrim County, MI. He attended Sturgis public schools, where he met his future wife, Marianne “Pat” Lash. He graduated from Sturgis High School in 1956.

Upon graduating from high school, George enlisted in the US Navy and was honorably discharged in October 1958. George served aboard the USS Hooper Island, primarily in the Pacific Ocean near the Marshall Islands. After his service in the Navy, he then attended Ferris State

University and received an associate degree in heating and air conditioning.

After a courtship that began when they were 17 years old, George and Pat married on February 4, 1961, at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Sturgis. Pat then joined George in Evansville, IN, where George was employed at Bendix-Westinghouse. In 1966, George took a job at McGraw-Edison in

Albion, MI and they relocated to Marshall, MI. George and Pat were members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

In 1972, George and Pat bought their first POA (Pony of the Americas). This started what turned into a family hobby and passion. For 12 years the entire family raised and showed POAs, traveling throughout Michigan and many parts of the country. As a result of the traveling and caravanning to and from shows, the families and friends that George’s family met over the years were a close-knit group. He thoroughly enjoyed sharing in these adventures with his family.

George’s very best times were when the grandchildren started to arrive. He was always more than willing to pick them up after school. He delivered Louie’s donuts to all the local grandchildren (and any of their friends) every Saturday morning. He and Pat made a point to attend as many soccer, dance, swim, dive, basketball, baseball and hockey events as they could. George enjoyed deer hunting, wearing a ball cap, and sunning himself in the warmth of the sun. Later in their marriage, George and Pat were able to spend several winters in Estero, FL. He also loved their several trips to Hawaii to celebrate their anniversary. More than anything, though, George

enjoyed the company of his children and grandchildren. He wanted to spend time with them anywhere, anytime, whether having a meal (especially biscuits and gravy at the 115), enjoying time at the lake, or watching a sporting event. George was most proud of the adults his children and grandchildren had become. He loved them all so much.

George leaves behind his loving wife of 61 years, Marianne “Pat” Tobias, and his four children: Beth (Konrad) Siller, Dan (Julie) Tobias, Mike (Beth Stinebaugh) Tobias, and Steve (Sabrina) Tobias. Also surviving George are his eight grandchildren: Benjamin Siller, Katherine Siller, Lauren Siller, Carson (Nick) Hacker, Brooklyn Tobias, Tristan Tobias, Kayla Tobias and Chelsea Tobias. Additionally, George is survived by his sister, Sharon (Ted) Wright; brother, Robert Tobias; aunt, Bea Skaggs; aunt, Liz Richardson; and sister-in-law (Pat’s twin sister), Sue Guilford. Lastly, George is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

George was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Archie Tobias; his uncle, James Skaggs; his mother-in-law, Violet Lash; his brother-in laws, Richard Guilford and Thomas Lash.

A celebration of George’s life will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 on Sunday, July 31, 2022, at Kempf Family Funeral Services (723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI, 49068).

If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary's Church, Marshall, or a charity of one's own choice.

Condolences can be left for the family at http://www.kempffuneralhome.com