March 3, 1956 – Jan. 12, 2025
Tim Sosbe, 68, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away in the evening of Jan. 12, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort 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 500s. 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, I.U. 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), sister 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 is at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. His family will visit with friends from 11 a.m. until the time of the service. Preferred memorials may be made in Tim's name to the Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center, 1540 Wentzel St., Rochester, IN 46975.
Online expressions may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.
