Richard H. ‘Dick’ Pobanz

MCKINNEY, Texas – Richard Howard “Dick” Pobanz, beloved husband, father, grandfather, athlete, and coach, was born Aug. 1, 1927, in Cambridge. He passed away Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015, in Mc­Kinney, after a brief illness. Dick’s remarkable zest for life, integrity, and energetic spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Dick was well-known for his softball talent both as player and coach. An outstanding pitcher and hitter, he played the game for 40 years. In 1956, he led the Geneseo Sieben Hybrids team to the World Softball Tournament, and was named to the All-American Softball Team. He went on to lead 13 All-State softball teams and earn numerous league and tournament honors. In 1988, he was inducted into the International Softball Congress Hall of Fame. He is featured in the book “Quad Cities Sports Greats,” by Brad Baraks.

In retirement, Dick moved to Texas to be near his family ... and the golf course. Ever the fierce competitor, he continued coaching and golfing well into his 87th year. On the golf course, he consistently scored below his age, humbling younger golfers on a daily basis.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Evelyn, of Fairview, Texas; children, Patty (Jon) Kendzie of Corinth, Texas, and Rick (Pam) Pobanz of Richardson, Texas; and grandsons, Austin and Jakob Kendzie and Adam Pobanz.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer; mother, Helen; and brothers, Edward and Bob.

A celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. today at First United Methodist Church of McKinney, followed by a reception at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ISC-Carrol Forbes Foundation, 10317 Sugar­berry Drive, El Paso, TX 79925.