Richard Leland Gobba, age 88, of rural Deerfield, died Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the Kresge Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Chelsea. Born April 19, 1937, on the family farm in Deerfield, he was the youngest son of the late Ernest and Ada (Rusling) Gobba.
Dick graduated from Deerfield High School with the Class of 1955, and the following year he proudly enlisted to serve his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps. He learned the skilled trade of an aircraft electrician, and he served in Japan during peacetime in between the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1959, and returned to civilian life with a lifelong love and respect for the Marines.
Working at the A&P grocery store in Adrian, Dick met the former Shirley Ann Broderick from Hudson whom he shared many interests with. They would eventually marry on April 20, 1963, at the Adrian First United Methodist Church. Together they raised a son, and cultivated over 62 years of love and beautiful memories.
Dick worked most of his career as a tool and die maker, employed in Manchester for Johnston Controls (now Uniloy) until his formal retirement in 2004. He was a faithful member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church all of his life, and also belonged to the Deerfield American Legion Post 392. He and Shirley were active members in the Porche Club of America (PCA) and were proud owners of several models throughout the years. In his spare time, Dick could be found tinkering in his shop or cleaning one of his cars. Dick was proud and passionate man who inspired his family and many he encountered. His kind and selfless nature will forever be fondly remembered.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Shirley, is a son, Jon (Monica) Gobba of Chelsea; a grandson, Spencer Gobba of Grand Rapids; and a granddaughter, Marlo Gobba of Chelsea. He was preceded in his death by his parents, and both of this brothers, Russell and Robert Gobba.
The family will receive friends for visitation at the Marry Funeral Home in Blissfield on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Palmyra on Thursday, August 14, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Rick Hogan will officiate. Burial will follow in Deerfield Township Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Richard’s honor are suggested to benefit the Immanuel Lutheran Church. Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Blissfield.