Franklin Dale Shobe

Franklin Dale Shobe went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 9, 2026, at the age of 84.  Franklin was born on January 16, 1942, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son of Chester and Dorothy (Hunter) Shobe.

Franklin graduated from Great Bend High School.  He worked in solid waste management until he joined the United States Air Force and served during the Vietnam War as a Missile Launch Officer, ultimately earning the rank of Captain.  In total, he proudly served in the Air Force for eight years.

Franklin continued his education at various colleges, including the University of Michigan, and ultimately earned a Doctorate of Mathematics from Clemson University.  Franklin joined the faculty of Ball State University and was a professor of Mathematics at the Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities, where he taught for twenty-three years.  Even after retirement, he remained active with the Indiana Academy, participating in events such as graduations.

Franklin enjoyed watching Sci-Fi adventures on television, reading, classical music, and playing the piano and organ.  Franklin co-taught the Senior Scribbles writing and journaling class at the Muncie Senior Citizens Center with his wife, Carolyn.  He was a kind, patient, and dignified man who cared immensely about the environment and recycling.  He had a huge heart and especially loved children.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Carolyn Shobe, two sons, David Shobe of Lawrence, Kansas, and Martin Shobe (Merrilyn) of Leavenworth, Kansas, two daughters, Nora Fletcher of Muncie, and Mary Ellen Hobson (Steven) of El Paso, Texas.  In addition, he leaves behind seven grandchildren.

Franklin was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Margaret and Martha Shobe.

A memorial service will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, 300 S. Madison, Muncie, on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM.  Friends may call on the family from 2:30 to 4:00 PM on the day of the service. 

The Reverend Dr. Dawn Roginski will officiate.  In place of. flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to the Indiana Academy, in care of BSU Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, and the local Animal Rescue Fund (ARF).

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