Michael R. Zobel, 54, of Grinnell died August 11, 2015, at his home.
A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 15th at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell with Rev. John Epperson officiating. Burial will be held at a later date at Hazelwood Cemetery in Grinnell.
Visitation with the family present will be held one hour prior to the memorial service at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Mike Zobel Memorial Fund.
Mike was born April 25, 1961, in Waterloo, the son of Richard Zobel and Kaylene Zobel Balleau. He was raised in Grinnell and was a 1979 graduate of Grinnell High School. He was employed briefly with Holland Plastics in Gilman prior to enlisting in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Midway while stationed in Japan and also served on the USS Saratoga. He was very proud to have served his country.
Following his discharge, he returned to Grinnell and soon after was diagnosed with schizophrenia. He worked very hard to manage his mental illness and was able to live independently.
Mike was a member of the Station Club House in Grinnell and during his childhood he was both a Cub Scout and Boy Scout. He enthusiastically participated in the Junior Achievement program throughout his high school years.
Mike held a love for his family and kept a strong bond with his brother, Chris. He loved to give hugs! He was very smart, very detailed and well organized. He loved music, writing and his graphic artwork. He enjoyed stamp collecting and putting together models. He was a friend to many!
Survivors include his parents, Dick Zobel of Grinnell and Kaylene Balleau of Grinnell; one brother, Chris Zobel of Des Moines; two nieces, Heather Brawdy and Shawna Cramer, both of Des Moines; one nephew, Todd Zobel of Des Moines; his close friend, Linda Holmes of Grinnell and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.