Jack Lobb Gribble

WAKEFIELD, Mich. - In the midst of the soft glow of Christmas lights and decorations, Jack Lobb Gribble, 85, slipped away peacefully at home on December 20, 2017. As an avowed Christmas fanatic and believer in this magical season, it seems somehow fitting.

Jack was born on August 19, 1932 in Ironwood, Mich., to John and LaRue Gribble. He developed his love for sports of all kinds at an early age, including his first attempt at ski jumping at the ripe old age of 5! Jack pursued every sport available to him during his school years – football in the fall (even though he weighed in at a mere 103 pounds as a freshman), basketball and skiing in the winter, and baseball continuously during the spring and summer. It wasn't until after his schooling ended and his professional career took him to Red Lodge, Mont., that he discovered his absolute sporting passion at the age of 28. GOLF! From that point forward, Jack could not get enough. There were always new courses to discover, books to read on perfecting techniques, clubs to regrip, hours spent at the driving range, and countless companions with whom to share his enthusiasm for the game.

Golf was by no means the only endeavor Jack met with enthusiasm. He approached everything with passion – he was observant, detailed, and meticulous. This served him well in his professional career which spanned over 50 years. His work as a real estate appraiser led to several relocations in the mid-west and western parts of the country (Ludington and Manistee, Mich., Mitchell, S.D., Appleton, Wis., Longview and Seattle, Wash., and the aforementioned Red Lodge). As his career progressed, opportunities to serve clients all across the country ensued, resulting in countless friendships, travel adventures, and stories to recount in later years. Other career opportunities presented themselves – planning director for Carbon County, Mont., director of the property tax division for the State of Montana, and property tax consultant (Nashville, Tenn.).

Jack loved being in the company of others, whether it was a new acquaintance, a dear family member or friend, or a complete stranger. He was never too busy to share a story, his infectious laugh, or his reflections on the latest Packers game. He always enjoyed a good meal (both at home or at his favorite restaurants) and always made sure his attire was "just-so" before leaving the house. His closet was full of sweaters and saddle shoes for every occasion.

As one would expect from a life so full, Jack leaves many who love him behind - his beloved wife of 29 years, Mary; his daughters, their families and their mother, Tiffany and Ryan Madden (Ryan-Nichole, Caelan, Elle, Audra), Kandace and Duane Hopkins (Dax, Quincee) and Jonella Yurkovich; his sister, Jane Stripling; his sister-in-law Carol Gribble, and several nieces and nephews. Predeceasing Jack were his parents, his brother Bryce, his brother-in-law Burnell Stripling, twenty-two aunts and uncles, and numerous cousins.

In lieu of a memorial, please honor Jack by offering a random act of kindness or generosity to another, as well as remembering a favorite time you shared with him.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel, Inc., in Wakefield.