Stephen William Dobler

Stephen William Dobler passed away in the early morning hours of Dec. 21, 2022. Steve was born in Peru, Indiana on March 9, 1938 to Stephen L. and Helen J. Dobler, who preceded him in death. He was an avid train collector and enthusiast. His love of railroading was passed down to his grandchildren and he was affectionately known by several as "Choo Choo Grandpa." He loved to treat his grandsons to lunch at PJ's in Huntington where they ate pizza and felt the wind from the train as they sat out on the deck. Steve had a genuine care and concern for others and always asked how other people were doing and focused more on others than himself. Steve loved being around his family and spending time with his grandchildren. Choo Choo Grandpa enjoyed his annual visits to family in Virginia. His visit in August included a family trip to Busch Gardens where he rode a train and motor scooted around the park.

Steve is survived by his brother Rich (Nancy) Dobler of Dundee, Florida, his sister Jeannie (Craig) Martin of Fort Myers, Florida and four children: Ginger (Clay) Claytor of Newport News, VA, Steve (Margie) Dobler of Leesburg, IN, Kathy (Bryan Stephenson) Thorpe of Rockford, OH, and Helen (Chris) Hambrock of Fort Wayne, IN. He is also survived by grandchildren: Shannon Thorpe, Stacey Thorpe, Michelle (Adam) Komatz, Ben Dobler, Grace (Brandan) Lewallen, Jacob Hambrock, Cruz Hambrock, Abigail (Kevin) Esser, Noah Stephenson and two great-grandchildren: Aiden Komatz and Annabelle Lewallen.

The family finds great comfort in knowing Steve is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and that he is no longer suffering from any ailments or pain.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Jan. 14, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Main Street United Methodist Church, 81 W Main St., Peru, Indiana. City of Firsts Cremation & Funeral Services by Rose & Geiger has been entrusted with the services.