Kendall Eugene Cobb

Kendall Eugene Cobb, 82, known fondly to many as Ken, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026. He was born in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, on January 19, 1944 to Kenneth and Jenny (Morey) Cobb. The eldest of 6, he welcomed his siblings into the home: Ronald, Donald, Bill, Linda and Chuck. 

Ken graduated from Fowlerville High School with the class of 1964, embarking early on a journey shaped by industriousness and a thirst for knowledge. His passion for automobiles led him to General Motors Tech in Milford, Michigan, where he earned his associate's degree in 1973. This commitment to learning laid the foundation for a lifelong career that would touch many lives.

Ken’s professional life was a testament to his mastery and dedication in the automotive field. He began by working as a technician for major dealer body shops including Story Oldsmobile and Lee GMC Body Shop, and he further distinguished himself at Lorenz Brother Buick, where he took on a management role. Taking the entrepreneurial leap that few dare, Ken became the proud owner and operator of Ken’s Body Shop, which eventually expanded to three locations: Lansing, St. John's, and M-46. Across more than forty years, he built a reputation as an expert auto body technician and a fair-minded business owner, respected by colleagues and clients alike.

Not one to confine himself to work alone, Ken cultivated a wide range of interests and hobbies. He found solace and excitement in hunting and fishing, wandering the woods for mushrooms, or sitting patiently by a lakeside. Woodworking and canvas painting offered him creative outlets, while the world of street rods and car fabrication was always close to his heart. Above all, Ken’s love for fabricating cars never faded, demonstrating both his technical skill and his artistic spirit.

Family was at the center of Ken’s life, and he maintained deep, meaningful connections across generations. Memories of Christmas mornings are forever marked by Ken’s thoughtful tradition of gifting porcelain dolls to his granddaughters, a simple gesture that spoke volumes of his gentleness and affection.

Ken’s personality could be, as those who knew him best would attest, a mix of candor, good humor, and stubborn determination. He was sparky and unafraid to say things as he saw them, yet he was the first to lend a hand or, if needed, the shirt off his back. His frankness, combined with genuine generosity, endeared him to friends old and new.

A testament to Ken’s character was the friendship and trust he built with the local Amish community. He took immense pride in helping others, often driving the Amish locally and to distant destinations. The bonds he formed were deep and enduring, a reflection of the respect and admiration shared between Ken and those whose lives he touched forever.

Ken leaves behind his children, Yvonne Mayhew of Grand Ledge, Kenneth Cobb of Grand Ledge, and Kevin (Mandy) Cobb of Grand Ledge; grandchildren, Megan (Andy) Burt of Dulth, GA, Kathyern (fiance Adam Gmitra) Morse of Saginaw, Victoria Cobb of Grand Ledge, Blaine Cobb of Grand Ledge, Nicholas Rentsch of Lansing, McKenzie Cobb of Grand Ledge, and Destiny Wilkes of MI; 14 great-grandchildren; brother, Chuck (Denise) Cobb of Stanton; sisters-in-law, Chris Cobb of St. Johns and Kathy Cobb of Portland; and several nieces and nephews. 

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Jenny (Morey) Cobb; siblings, Ronald Cobb, Donald Cobb, Linda (Fred) Ellsworth, and Michael "Bill" Cobb; and son-in-law, Steven Mayhew. 

Cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of life at a later date. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the wishes of the family.