Stanley A. Sobel, age 74, of Belmont, Ohio died on December 15 at home.

He was born on November 12, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio.

He attended several universities during his lifetime which all helped to shape Stan Sobel as a person. He was especially happy to have attended the Ohio State University where he studied science and how to root for the defeat of U of Michigan's football teams. He attended Rio Grande University, where he learned leadership skills and the essentials of teaching.  At Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, and Arizona State U, Phoenix he learned and worked with isolating DNA and then relating that work to altering genetics. He also attended Ohio University, where he not only took classes to extend his teaching credentials but also, met up with the William Bartels family which became his second family.

He was proud to have taught biology and other science classes at Southwestern H.S., Gallia County, Ohio, Pioneer H.S., Williams County, Ohio and at Union Local H.S., Morristown. He was proudest watching his students ascend to successful careers after high school.

He was a member of Belmont United Methodist Church, served on several school related committees, was a previous member of the Union Local Board of Education, and Village of Belmont's mayor. He enjoyed life, liberty, and the pursuit of fun.  He was known as an independent thinker.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Harvey M. Sobel, Mother, Catherine (Hodge) (Sobel) Price, and Stepfather, Kefton V. Price.

Survivors include OPIE, Stan's companion dog and also his long time companion and best friend, Polly Collins. He is also survived by extended family in the Columbus area, and special friends, Carol and Jim Saksa, who generously gave their time and energies to support him.

A memorial gathering and service will be held at the Mayor Stan Sobel Playground in Belmont on Sunday, May 23rd at 2 p.m. with Rev. Theresa Bobot and Rev. Andrew Thompson officiating. Stan's ashes will be interred privately at Belmont Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to Toothman Funeral Home in St. Clairsville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the 3 C's Cancer Support Group or Valley Hospice or Belmont United Methodist Church.