Gary Lee Iobe, age 81, of Leonidas, died Monday, January 8, 2024 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo following a long illness. He was born in Leonidas on May 1, 1942 the son of Milo and Eva (Groth) Iobe, worked on the family farm as he grew up, and was a lifetime resident of Leonidas Township. Gary graduated from Colon High School with the class of 1960, and continued to farm his entire adult life. He was married to Mary Ellen Condon on September 11, 1976 at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Sturgis. Mary passed away on March 25, 2010. Gary was a 4-H volunteer and spent many hours working at the St. Joseph County Grange Fair. He also supervised the former 4-H recycling project in Mendon. Gary enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, planting his vegetable garden, and tending his walnut trees. He was especially proud of his rose bushes scattered about the property.
Gary is survived by a son and daughter in law, Corey (Stephanie) Iobe of Mendon; five grandchildren, Noah, Benjiman, Zakari, Jakson, and Ellyn Iobe; four nieces and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary; brother, Gaylord Iobe; sisters, Alice “Sally” Denny and Velma Burson.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 pm Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. Funeral services will be 11 am Monday, January 15, 2024 at the Factoryville Bible Church with Pastor Fred Goebert officiating. Interment will be in Beard Cemetery, followed by a social gathering back at the church.
It is suggested that memorial donations be made to the Leonidas Do-Best 4-H Club. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com