John B. "Jack" Stobar

My name is Alexis Franchi. I have the honor of being the first-born granddaughter of Jack Stobar, and as such, was the first to call him my granddad. I'm honored to be part of his legacy, as his children, fourteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, carry on his love and values that are deeply entwined in our very being.

My granddad lived a humble but truly extraordinary life...and he did it "his way". Born in Detroit, the motor city, he grew up in Dearborn with his parents, my great-parents Ida and Jack Sr. He developed an early love of automobiles. His strong work ethic began in his youth, with a paper route on his bicycle. He was a licensed driver at 14, and could be found tinkering on and souping up vehicles in the garage with his cousins and his friend George DeLorean - yes, like the car.

My granddad was a great admirer of Henry Ford, he actually spent his 14th birthday going to see him lying-in-state to pay his respects. It comes as no surprise that as a teenager, he began his career with Ford Motor Co. He worked with Ford worked until he was called away by the Korean War. He served in Texas and Guam as an engine conditioning specialist on the flight line. After his time in the Air Force, he returned to Ford, where he spent the entirety of his professional career.

Growing up with my granddad, I cherish the memories of him sitting and playing at his Roland Organ. He loved music, especially big band, specifically Frank Sinatra. My granddad took enormous pride in his fleet of vehicles over the years, especially his Mustangs and his red Thunderbird. Also an avid boater, he enjoyed being out on the water on anything with an engine. He passed down this love generationally, creating treasured memories with his children and grandchildren who work to carry on his traditions.

My Granddad was a caretaker, He cared for my Great-Grandma Ida until her final days at nearly 103 years old. He cared for my grandmother; His deep commitment to her unwavering through 54 years of marriage. He cared for his children. My granddad also cared for me, especially in the early years of my life. He has cared for every member of our family, in depths I'm sure we'll never really know. And when it was it turn to be cared for, my Uncle Chris was there every step of the way.

As a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Fair Haven since 1977, my granddad steadfastly carried with him a strong faith. It´s been almost two years since we last stood in this room and my heart broke as I watched my granddad grieve the loss of his wife, my grandmother - I pray we can all find peace knowing they are now reunited for eternity and that we too, will one day be reunited with them.

Dad, Granddad, Jack, or "Jack the Mustang Guy", however you knew him and loved him, you know there was no one quite like him. The twinkle in his eye that would be followed by a dose of quick wit and his special brand of humor. He was endlessly charming, confident, and kind. When parting ways, you always left with a smile and full heart. Genuine and generous without expectation, all of his family and friends have been touched by the heart of this incredibly special man.