Still missing Mark after all these years. He was so kind, fun, and reassuring with his gentle strength. I'm so lucky to be good friends with Sharon and to keep his memories alive. He would LOVE his grandchildren so much! Forever in our hearts.

Sharon and family,

Please accept our sincere condolences upon Mark's passing. I'm Mark's cousin. Paul and my father, James, are half-brothers. My dad passed away many years ago. I hadn't seen Mark since we were kids. I remember him as a cute dark-haired little boy. Now his hair matched mine :). I wish I could have known him as an adult. Judging from his obituary and memorials he was a good man and loved by a lot of people. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord comfort you in your grief.

To Mark's family, I send my deepest condolences. I have known and done business with Mark in various capacities since 1990, and he has been on my primary list of business friends ever since. I am deeply shocked and saddened by your loss. It particularly strikes close to home, as I am only a few months apart from Mark in age, and my two daughters are of similar ages to your children. While I have not seen a lot of Mark in the past few years, I had just caught up with him over the phone in October and caught up on some of his current life. I used to come down to North Liberty on business, and Mark and I would "sneak" out for "business" outings at the Amana Colonies golf course or go waterskiing on the river by your home. He is one of the fairest and most honest businessmen I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with-my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Tom Bishop- St. Michael, MN.

Sharon & family. We just found out today about Mark as our pastor had left a message through Prairie Flower's prayer chain call. We have been out of the country for 10 days. Our prayers to you and your family. Was such a shock to us! We never know when our Lord will call us home. Mark was a wonderful man of God, husband and father. Thank God for all the wonderful years and memories! Praying for God to give you peace & understanding. Hugs to you!

Dear Lobb Family,

Dear Shari,

Two quotes of Mark's stand out for me after his powerful funeral on Saturday:

1. "I don't have to judge them; I just get to love them."

2. "Let's pray."

Mark didn't try to do God's job for him; Mark simply let God love him and let God love others through him. I seek to follow you, Mark Paul, as you followed Christ.

Can't believe the news we just recieved out here in Colorado but our hearts are heavy. I am remembering how you Sharon and Mark supported us opening River Rock and how we became close at that time. You two were a wonderful and beautiful example of love, loyalty, dedication and commitment to each other. Many did benefit from a relationship with you too, me included. I love you Sister, always have, and will pray for you and the children.

Dear Sharon,

Sharon and Family,

mark was always funny. couldnt wait to see him in our younger years in the summer times in montana. always a true stand up guy, i really learned to admire him in our adult years. you are truly missed in my heart mark. god bless.

Sharon and family--Words cannot express how sorry I am for the loss of Mark so suddently and in our human minds, too early. Please be comforted by the fact that your loss is heaven's gain. And I'm sure Mark is even right now rejoicing with his heavenly Father. I had the privilege of growing up in the Prairie Flower Baptist Church youth group at the same time as Mark. Those are such precious memories of mine, we had such a close knit great group of kids, of which Mark was a part. He always brought fun and memories to those get togethers. Looking back, those times were some of the most blessed of my life. In reading the messages from people, Mark must have had a huge impact on so many people. I am praying for you today and in the days ahead. Pastor Lobb, Edwina, Marlaine, Tim, and Teri, please know my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Well, where should I begin? How about the notorious Lobb-Yagla family vacation to Colorado - pretty sure this was Mark's idea, considering he did convince his family to go camping two years in a row in the Boundary Waters.

So, it was the summer of 1997, two families - the Lobb's (Mark, Sharon, Josh (~15), Luke (11), Jenni (~9), Zach (6) and the Yagla's (Steve, Diane, Mary (17), Jon (14), Susan (12) and Jessica (6), and ONE RV! (Capacity for questionably a family of 6, but by today's standards, I would say 4 at the most). I remember vividly being so excited at the Lobb's waiting for my dad and Mark to come back with the RV (they went to pick it up together); and I am pretty sure when they pulled up in front of the house, we ALL exclaimed, "Wait, we are taking THAT to Colorado?" You got it! 12 people (4 adults, 8 kids) all into one tiny and ancient looking RV! And so the road trip to CO began - with Mark doing most of the driving while my dad co-piloted. As you can imagine we have countless stories from this incredible adventure (white water rafting, hiking, camping; oh and driving that thing on the narrow road up to Pike's Peak!), but I will leave it at that!

Even to this day, every time our families got together we always said we should do it again; just maybe upgrade the RV this time...

Mark was a selfless, genuine man and he helped build a family that is a mirror image of those outstanding qualities that he so graciously possessed. I am so honored to be a part of their life.

A mere two weeks ago we shared our last laughs, smiles, and genuine conversations; we shared our last hug; our last kiss on the cheek.

He met my son Micah for the first time and exclaimed how beautiful and peaceful he was as he slept.

Mark will live on; through the many lives he has touched. He will especially live on through his wonderful family; the beautiful wife and children he has left behind.

Lobb family, I love you all - Mark, Sharon, Josh, Luke, Jenni and Zach.

"Suzy"

I am very sorry to hear about Mark's passing. I have nothing but warm thoughts and fond memories of him. I am glad to have known him and I will be thinking about the time I spent with him at Penn Elementary functions and Iowa City Kickers soccer games.

It's so hard to lose a husband and father so young. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days ahead.

Lois, Tyler, and Katherine Bird

Sharon and family,

We were so sorry to learn of the death of Mark. I appreciated so much when you came to my mother's funeral for John and Marlaine. I know there will be an emptiness but may the Lord fill that space in your heart. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Marcia Carlson

Praying for the family.

Our condolences to the Lobb family. We were shocked to learn of Mark's passing at so young an age. We have many memories of Mark when he was attending Prairie Flower. He was certainly an outstanding young man. I always enjoyed teaching Joshua at Kalona Elementary. Our prayers and concern are with the family as you face the days ahead.

I had the pleasure of going to school with Mark . He left his mark on the world and will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all

Mark was an ideal man to me. A man that was honest, caring, and would always put others before himself.

Sharon & family our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. Sue and I were remembering our families spending time together and our "at the time young kids" playing together, great memories. Mark was a good friend and an excellant role model to his family & friends. We will continue to keep all of you in our prayers.

Jeff & Sue Rosien

I am now retired and had the utmost honor to have met Mark Unfortunately for me for a short time. I am now retired and in my late 70 s. Time now permits me to think of some of the wonderful things that have come my way. Mark was one of the blessings God was so kind to grant me. No doubt you will all miss Mark. May all your memories be of how blessed we were to have him with us.

Keeping you in our prayers,

Steve Kelly

I met Mark almost 30 years ago and we quickly became good friends and eventually colleagues. Although time and distance caused us to drift apart I have never forgotten him. This photo is perfect. It captures his big heart for people along with the twinkle of mischief in his eye that I remember so well. He loved to have fun. We shared a mutual love for Christ and the Scriptures and as good friends do, tried to challenge one another to live with integrity. Mark was good for me in that way. Sharon, I ran into Mark a few years ago at a trade show and I can only echo the comments by others. All he talked about was you and the kids and it was very special. We are praying for you that God will help you and your family know His Presence in your life as never before and that you will experience His Peace and Comfort in the richest ways possible. We are truly sorry for your loss. Dalyn Dye

I worked with Mark at the Swank company. He was a kind gentle soul. I always enjoyed sitting in his office and talking. He always had a smile on his face and always had time to talk. I have never met a person as cool and calm as Mark. My prayers go out to Mark's family. God bless you.

Sharon and family, It has been a shock to hear of Mark's passing so can only imagine the shock it has been to all of you. Words never seem to be able to say what one desires at a time like this. May you know that we are praying for you all and are asking for comfort from the Lord to be heaped upon each of you. We all know Mark is in the arms of His Savior but he is terribly missed here on earth. Mark will remain a loving example of a true Christian spouse, father, and friend. Peace be with you, Ron and Bev Herman and family

Gods blessing on your family. We are both sorry that we did not know Mark because he was obviously a wonderful person.

I will never forget the chats that Mark and I had in his office almost daily. It was either for advice or just a pop in and say hi. I could talk to him like he was my own dad. He was such a wonderful man and we are all blessed to have known him and he will be dearly missed.

A very sad day and a massive loss

I had the pleasure and the honor of meeting Mark, Sharon and their family a while ago. They were at our wedding and helped us tremendously and I also had the privilege of attending their daughter's wedding, a beautiful day.

Just a few days ago I again had the pleasure of reuniting with them at the Diane's surprise bday party. We laughed, had great cake and enjoyed a couple hours together. Susan and I shared with everyone and with lots of pride, the great quilt that Sharon had made for our son Micah and then before we left we gave them a hug and then went home. Today that last hug is truly a special one for Susan and I.

I did not have the great honor of knowing Mark like a close friend. However, I have to say that he has impacted me forever and that he will make me want to be a better person, husband and dad.

I have only seen my wife cry inconsolable twice, one was when our son was born and she wanted to know where he was and if he was been hold by someone and the second time was just a few days ago when she heard from her mom about Mark, that truly tells me what kind of human being Mark will always be. The love, respect and admiration she had for Mark and her family was and is so big that makes me understand that we are talking about a very special and chosen person. After a long cry, many hugs and a very deep silence, Susan started telling me about vacation stories with the Lobbs, how great Mark was and how much she has always looked up to him. Last thing she said was: he was a father figure to me. Her words and profound sadness made me admire this great and unique man and I can only hope that many of us can be as good as he was to everyone who was close to him.

My heart is broken for Mark's family, but a person like Mark never leave us. What he has done for all will always remain.

My more profound and sincere condolences to the Lobb's family

Jose Michel Fajardo

Sharon and family,

Words cannot express the great loss I am feeling at hearing of Mark's passing. I know it's been almost a year since we saw you and Mark at Gramma's funeral but it seems just like yesterday. I will never forget Mark coming up to me and telling me that he was going to hang out by me because he thought I knew who everyone was at Gramma's funeral. Little did he know that I only knew the people that were our ages. I felt lucky enough that he got to meet my boyfriend Kelly and that they oddly enough worked in the same line of work and their job responsibilities were similar which gave them something to talk about. Of course we talked about coming to see you for a visit or hoping you could come here but we know how those things never work out. I wish I had the words to comfort you, but for now just know that I'm thinking of you and your family and praying for you. If you ever feel like talking please call or text me or message me on face book. I have been healing from some health issues of my own lately. Bless you and your family Sharon, Love Stacie and Kelly

To Sharon and the whole Lobb family,

We are so very sorry for your loss. Though he was taken way too soon, we know where he is. He will one day welcome his family into Heaven with open arms. Until then, those of us left behind are inspired by this gentle, kind hearted soul and hope to emulate this role model of a Christian husband, father, friend etc...

With Love,

The Roger and Suzie Treloar

Sharon, It's been many years since I have seen you and Mark--I wish we had kept in touch. When I heard from fellow high school classmates that Mark had passed away, I felt so badly for you and your family. Many happy memories of youth group days came flooding back. For these last few days I have found myself thinking of sledding parties, swimming at Lake Darling on hot summer nights, Clear Lake camp, and hanging out at our house, or Vanderlinden's or Luers' with the youth group. After I got to know you, in college-- mostly the summer we went to Peru together--I always thought it was so neat that you and Mark started dating and then got married. You were so cute together! In reading what other people have written about Mark, I can see that he allowed God's love and grace to shine though his life. I will be praying for God's peace that only He can give to sustain you and your family at this time. And I will also be praying that through Mark's death, God will be glorified. Please, also, pass on my sympathies to Pastor and Mrs. Lobb. Sincerely, Marcia Frier Strattan

I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Mark for 9 years. He was a truly fine man, intelligent, quick witted, caring. The world has lost one of it's best, I can say no more than that...

Thinking of you all

Words can not express my sorrow for your loss. Mark will be missed everyday. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

My heart goes out to the family for the loss of a father, husband, friend and all around great man. He was kind, generous, helpful and caring. He was always asking about your day or weekend and really cared. He had that smiled that always lifted your spirits. I worked for Mark for about 15 years. Many plane rides and car rides with great fatherly advice along the way. He was their for my single days, getting married and becoming a parent to 3 kids. He watched me grow up. I lost my own father 3 years ago and now I have lost my JM Swank dad. Coincidence, or not my own dads birthday was October 12 and Mark's was October 10. Two great men in my life both taken too soon. To the family - you will have rough days ahead. Remember that smile to help wipe away the tears.

Sharon and family,

It has been a honor and pleasure to have worked with Mark over the past 19 years. He will be deeply missed by everyone at JM Swank. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

It is very seldom in life that you have the pleasure of meeting a one of a kind, special, genuine person all wrapped into one. We here at JM Swank were very blessed to know and work with Mark. He always had a smile on his face and good things to say.

I was shocked to say the least and still can't believe he's gone. There's a huge void here at work. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

God Bless

Dear Zach and the entire Lobb family,

I am so saddened to learn of the tremendous loss of your Dad. Thank you for sharing the wonderful stories of his incredible life! I can tell by his photograph that he was a very special man.

Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers Zach. I pray that the memories of your Dad will provide you with strength in the days, weeks, and months to come. May these memories inspire you each and every day. God bless you.

Sincerely,

Debbie

To Sharon and Family.

My prayers and thoughts are with you. You have lost a great Husband and Father. The rest of the world has lost a good man. I do not understand the workings of the Universe and why it can at times seems to be so unfair. There is a part of me that believes that all of us have a purpose in life and once that purpose is fulfilled, we move on. Death's door is only an opening to a new life and a new purpose. May the Good Lord watch over you and give you comfort during these trying times.

So very sorry to hear about Mark's passing. I worked with him at JM Swank several years ago. He was a very personable individual and I truly enjoyed working with him. Sending lots of prayers and hugs to his family and friends!

Mark is someone that I'll always remember. His great smile would always draw everyone in and as he spoke of his family his smile would get even bigger. He would beam when telling of the family's latest adventure or get together. His positive attitude and inviting personality will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Mark's entire family.

I worked with Mark for over 25 years, we were in the warehouse together when he first started at JM Swank. His dedication and work ethic were second to none, it was my pleasure to work along side of him all these years. My sincere condolences to Mark's family, my thoughts are with you in this of time grief.

Mark was a high school class mate and we graduated from Washington Iowa in 1976. It was a privilege to know Mark (and his family). Mark lived the Christian faith and left the world a better place. As Jesus would say "Well done, good and faithful servant." Mark, you ran the race well and we will all miss you, but we will see you once again in the sweet by and by... God bless your family and loved ones ... will be sending up prayers.

To the words of this beautifully written obituary, I say, Amen. May Jesus compassion help you to endure this great loss.

Mark was such good man with a big heart and an even bigger smile. I feel so lucky to have gotten to know Mark over the many years we worked together. He always had positive things to say and loved his family with all he had. He will be deeply missed by many but never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with Mark's entire family and everyone that loved him.

Not only was Mark a great manager, I considered him a good friend. He was very easy to talk to and always understanding. I will miss his smile and unforgettable laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.

Mark and I worked together many years ago, and I have fond memories of him and his lovely family. Rest in peace my friend!

Sharon and family- I am so sorry for your loss, and am sending my thoughts and prayers. During this difficult time, please know how much Mark loved you. At work, not a day would go by where Mark didn't share a story about his family, and he always had a smile on his face. I will always remember his warm smile, and calming personality. I am sure you have a lot of wonderful stories too; those memories will always keep him close at heart!

Sharon and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I have happy childhood memories of Mark and am so sorry for your great loss.

I met Mark once in person but many times over the phone. He was kind, energetic, yet calm. He was very helpful in helping us set up a new project. He got the job done and it was great working with him. I am very sad to learn of his death.

To Sharon and Family :

My deepest sympathies to you and your family.

Seems like only yesterday that Mark and I would be talking about mushroom hunting or what were Mr. Claussen's expectations of us as managers or how sore he was from palying basketball with us over at the rec center.

He and your family will be added to my prayer list and know that the Good Lord will see you thru this time. Michael Pacha

Sharon and family,

May God comfort you during this difficult time. Mark was a very special person who left a positive impression on everyone he met. He was a very dear friend and will be greatly missed.

My thoughts and prayers are with you!

Bill

I am deeply saddened to hear of Mark's passing. He was a wonderful person and I enjoyed working with him over the course of many years and several different projects. Please accept my most sincere condolences on your loss. I will remember all of you in my prayers.

Sharon and family. This was WAY too soon, doesn't seem right this side of heaven. We are struck with grief at your sudden loss.

Mark, you loved the spirit of running, see you at the finish line.

Greg and Katie

Sharon & Family,

We are shocked and very sorry for your loss. We have many memories of your young family and now I have the pleasure of working with Joshua. Mark was a wonderful young man and will be missed by all that knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this very difficult time.

Mike and Bev Black

Mark was so cool....he jumped right in when I was trying to find a home for Tinkerbell and I never had any worries after that! I can't remember him ever having a bad day, just that sly smile. My thoughts are with you-

Carrie Shelton.

I am so sorry for your loss. Mark always had a huge smile on his face and had an amazing way of listening to anything you wanted to talk about. He will be forever missed within the JM Swank Family.

We will miss your smile and the encouraging spirit that you possess. We pray all of God's best to the Lobb family through this deep felt grief.

To Josh and your family -

I was shocked and so sad to hear the news of your father's passing. Please accept my most heartfelt condolences for your loss. You are in my thoughts.

There are no words to express the shock and sadness that Kelli and I felt, upon hearing the news about Mark. Sharon; please know that you and your family will always have a place in our hearts, both as friends and as members of the JM Swank Family.

Sharon and family,

My deepest sympathy to your entire family in the loss of Mark. Mark was one of my favorite people at J.M. Swank Co. He always had a smile on his face and was always kind to everyone he met. God opened a huge door for Mark and he will be forever remember and loved. God Bless him and your family.

Trudy