Mike Shobe

09/09/1954 – 11/19/2011

Mike Shobe, 57, longtime resident of Santa Barbara, passed away on Saturday, November 19, 2011. Michael Henry Shobe was born in Richmond, Virginia but moved to West Palm Beach, Florida at a very young age. Mike was the youngest son of Thomas and Odell Shobe. He is survived by brother, Steve Shobe, and sister-in-law, Dianne Shobe, of Middletown, Connecticut, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins in Virginia.

Mike began his interest in botany at the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden and parlayed that love of nature and plants into a life-long passion. Mike was also an avid music lover. He was the sole impetus for Shobefest, an annual event spanning 19 years, in which he gathered many regional musicians for a day of music and a fun time for all.

For condolences, the family wishes all of his wonderful friends to just take a silent moment and reflect on this kind, gentle soul who touched their hearts, and to celebrate the music of Mike’s life.