Harlan C. Zobrist

Harlan C. Zobrist, 82, of Metamora, IL passed away at 6:05 am on Monday, December 15, 2025 at the Villas of Hollybrook Memory Care Unit in Washington, IL.

He was born on August 6, 1943 to Harold and Maurine (Moser) Zobrist in Peoria, IL. Harlan was always a hard worker, but upon graduating Metamora High School, he fully began his career as a butcher at the family business, the Metamora Abattoir.

In 1965, three years after meeting his sweetheart, Sue Leman, at the Roanoke A&W Root Beer stand, he married Sue and they raised three children in Metamora.

After a long career at the abattoir he went on to work sales at Winkler Meats and at Woodford County Mutual as a claims adjuster. Upon retirement, he worked at Metamora Township High School in varying capacities, most notably taking an immense amount of pride as a groundskeeper for the high school baseball fields. In recognition of his commitment to the team, he even had a baseball tourney named after him: The Harlan Zobrist Classic.

Harlan was a lifetime member of the Metamora VFW following service in the Army Reserves where he functioned as a driving instructor.

He was an avid duck hunter and baseball enthusiast. He loved his Chicago Cubs and going to high school games to watch his children and grandchildren. He was a permanent fixture at the MTHS football games as he worked at the pass gate for many years. He also was known for his sausage-making skills as he provided his special mixture to most of his family and many friends in the community.

Harlan was preceded in death by his parents, older brother Larry Zobrist, and his beloved wife of 59 years, Sue.

He is survived by his three children, Lisa (Tim) Simpson, Jeff (Shelly) Zobrist, and Jason Zobrist; and three brothers and three sisters, Eldon (Jane) Zobrist, Dean (Joyce) Zobrist, Keith (Anne) Zobrist, Janet (Kent) Hodel, Julia Zobrist, and Joy (Steve) Kennell. He also leaves behind four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who will miss good times with "Paw-Paw."

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11:30 am on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Christian Union Church. A private family funeral service and private family burial will follow with Pastor Tom Zobrist officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association, 614 West Glen Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614 or to Reflections Memory Care, 1280 Independence Court, Washington, IL 61571. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

DONATIONS:

Alzheimer's Association, 614 West Glen Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614

Reflections Memory Care, 1280 Independence Court, Washington, IL 61571