Mabel Cheung Grubbe

Mabel Cheung Grubbe, 70, passed away unexpectedly on March 15, 2026, in Chandler, Arizona. Born on June 30, 1955, in Joliet, Illinois, Mabel lived a life filled with love, friendship, and dedication to those around her.

Mabel's early years were spent in Joliet, where she attended Pershing Elementary School, Hufford Junior High, and Joliet Central High School. In 1972, her family relocated to San Francisco, California. There, she completed her senior year at Washington High School before pursuing higher education at San Francisco City College. She earned an Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Development while working part-time as a student secretary for the college's Early Childhood Department.

In 1990, Mabel married the love of her life, Meredith Grubbe. Together, they built a life filled with shared adventures and deep affection. After retiring from her position at City College in 1993, Mabel and Meredith moved to Mount Shasta in January 1995. The serene beauty of Mount Shasta became their cherished home. Mabel embraced life on the mountain and devoted herself to caring for Meredith during his battle with cancer until his passing on October 28, 2001. Her unwavering care and search for healing remedies during this time exemplified her kindness and dedication.

Mabel had a passion for crafting and was especially fond of knitting. She created countless washcloths that she lovingly gifted to friends and family. Her love for children shone brightly as she enjoyed crafting with Lily's grandchildren and celebrating the holidays surrounded by their joy. Music was another source of happiness for Mabel; she delighted in listening to oldies from the '70s, '80s, and '90s. She also cherished traveling with Meredith along the West Coast, often camping in spots that held special memories.

A dedicated volunteer, Mabel gave her time generously to help friends with genealogy and ancestry research. She also volunteered with Mount Shasta Hospice for several years, forming meaningful connections through her service.

In May 2018, Mabel moved to Chandler, Arizona, to live with her lifelong friend of 70 years, Lily. Shortly after her arrival, she was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease but continued to embrace life fully alongside Lily and her family. Mabel found joy in spending time with Lily's grandchildren and participating in family adventures. In October 2023, she transitioned to a senior living facility in Chandler where she made many new friends. By the fall of 2024, as her Parkinson's progressed, Mabel returned to live with Lily for more personalized care.

Mabel is survived by her sisters Frances (Bob) Guntle and Sylvia (Jerry) Latham; brothers Robert (Brenda) Cheung and Kenneth Cheung; nieces and nephews Evan Manifold, Emily Knight, Joshua Latham, Lynze Cheung, Kevin Cheung, and Jasmine Cheung; great-nephew Justin Latham; and great-great-nephews Jace Latham and Jack Latham. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Meredith Grubbe; parents Bew Ock and Yuk Woon Cheung; and brother-in-law Thomas Manifold.

Mabel will be remembered for her kindness, thoughtfulness, love of children and animals—especially cats—and the warmth she brought into every relationship she nurtured. Her unexpected passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew her.

May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her deeply. A Memorial Gathering will be held on April 11, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Home of Lily Tirpak 1804 N. Arrowhead Circle.