IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Timothy "Tim"

Timothy "Tim" Sosbe Profile Photo

Sosbe

Mar 3, 1956 — Jan 12, 2025

Obituary

Tim Sosbe, 68, of Rochester was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away in the evening of January 12, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Ft. Wayne.

On March 3, 1956, in Kokomo, Timothy Ray Sosbe was born.  He was a treasured son of Charles W. and Wilma L. Gollner Sosbe.  Growing up he shared his childhood with two sisters, Debora and Linda, and a brother Chuck.  As a Wildcat, Tim graduated with his class from Kokomo High School in 1975.

In Rochester, on July 14, 1979, Tim married the love of his life Miss Debbie B. Wagoner in Rochester's First Christian Church.  They enjoyed over 45 years of life's adventures.  From their union came a beautiful daughter Stacey.  The family tree continued to grow with the added blessing of granddaughter Ella Sophia.

With a strong and dedicated work ethic, Tim worked as an engine builder and was head of the midget division for nationally known Gaerte Engines.  He ascended with great skills and ability to build high performance engines, becoming recognized as a premier builder.  During those years he accompanied racing icons Earl Gaerte and A. J. Foyt, hanging out in the garage and in the pits during the month of May at many Indy 500's.  Tim continued to build engines for stellar racing teams.  As an accomplished midget driver, Tim applied the heat by putting the hammer down and challenging anyone who dared to get near to him.  He was successful and revered driving to many wins.  On Stacey's arrival, Tim hung up his helmet and with great happiness joyfully embraced his role as being a Daddy.

Applying his knowledge and skills, Tim became a member of a new team, Rochester's New Holland.  He was the parts manager and a technician for the last 13 years.  In the past few years resuming his love for speed, Tim formed his engine building company, "Speed Engines." Once again building engines for top drivers, giving them the racer's edge.

Relaxing in his recliner, Tim was a sports enthusiast.  He loved all types of racing, IU basketball, everything Notre Dame, and "Da Bears.". Tim found immense joy in being the proudest fan in the stands, cheering on his beloved nieces and nephews at their sporting events. Above all, he cherished his role as "Cheer Grampy," traveling far and wide to support his granddaughter Ella as she competed in cheerleading. His unwavering enthusiasm and love for his family made every game and competition an unforgettable celebration.  His greatest love was being with his family.  He experienced great fortune always surrounding himself with three amazing women: Debbie, Stacey and Ella.

Tim will be lovingly remembered by his wife Debbie; daughter Stacey Papandria (Chris); siblings: Linda Wagoner (Mike) all of Rochester, Debora Piercy (Stanley), Chuck Sosbe (Karen) all of Kokomo; granddaughter Ella Sophia Papandria; nieces and nephews: Chris, Jennifer, Nikki, Nathan, Lindsey, Dan, Boyd, Adam and Errin; numerous great nieces and nephews; Tim's work family at New Holland; his felines Susie and Maci; and the grand-dogs Bindi and Dita.

A celebration of the life of Timothy "Tim" Sosbe will be at 1:00 PM Saturday, January 18, 2025, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester, IN.  His family will visit with friends from 11:00 until the time of the service. Preferred memorials may be made in Tim's name to The Fulton County Animal Education and Adoption Center, 1540 Wentzel Street, Rochester, IN  46975

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Visitation

January
18

Saturday

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Celebration of Life

January
18

Saturday

Starts at 1:00 pm

Guestbook

Visits: 14

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors