It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of one of the Bobkat Family’s beloved members, Jimbo. His loss is a deep and irreplaceable one, not only for those who knew him personally but for the entire community that he helped shape. Jimbo’s unwavering dedication to the Bobkats, his mentorship, and his infectious passion for the team made him a cornerstone of our family. His contributions went beyond just his work; he was a true mentor, a guiding force, and a friend to all of us.
Jimbo was there at the very beginning, playing an instrumental role in bringing the Bobkats to Kokomo. His vision, hard work, and commitment were pivotal in the foundation of our team, and he poured his heart into everything he did. Whether it was on the sidelines or behind the scenes, Jimbo’s passion for the Bobkats was undeniable. He not only helped build the team but also helped build a sense of family—a family that we are all proud to be a part of. His guidance and mentorship helped shape many of us, both on and off the field.
Just two weeks ago, we had the privilege of honoring Jimbo and his son Jace during the Jimmy Rayl Night at one of our games. It was a special moment, one that will forever be etched in our hearts, as we were reminded of the incredible legacy Jimbo leaves behind. To see him there, still as passionate as ever about the Bobkats and still mentoring the next generation, was a testament to the deep love and commitment he had for this team. His presence that night, filled with warmth and pride, was a reminder of how much he meant to all of us.
As we reflect on Jimbo’s life, we remember not just his contributions to the Bobkats but also the kindness, generosity, and sense of humor that made him so beloved by all who knew him. Jimbo was more than just a mentor; he was a friend, a father, and a role model. His legacy will live on in the memories he created with us, in the lessons he imparted, and in the spirit of unity and family that he fostered.
Jimbo’s impact reached far beyond the field. His wisdom was felt in every aspect of the Bobkat community. Whether it was offering words of encouragement during tough times or sharing a laugh after a hard-fought victory, Jimbo’s presence was always felt, and his influence was always positive. He was a constant source of inspiration, pushing each of us to be better, to do better, and to never give up.
His mentorship was not just about sports but about life itself. Jimbo understood that being part of a team was about more than just winning games—it was about building character, forming lifelong bonds, and supporting one another through both triumphs and failures. His lessons weren’t just for the young athletes he worked with but for everyone who had the honor of knowing him.
In this time of loss, our thoughts and condolences go out to Jimbo’s family, especially his son Jace, as they navigate this incredibly difficult moment. We know that words cannot fully express the sorrow and grief they are feeling, but we stand with them in this time of mourning. We are here for you, just as Jimbo was there for all of us, always ready to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.
The Bobkat Family will never be the same without Jimbo, but we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in each of us. We will continue to carry the torch that he helped light, and we will honor his memory by upholding the values of dedication, hard work, and mentorship that he embodied every day.
Jimbo, you will always be remembered, and your legacy will continue to inspire us. Rest in peace, and thank you for everything you gave to the Bobkat Family. You will never be forgotten. Your influence, your love, and your spirit will remain in the hearts of all those who were lucky enough to know you.
Your passion for the Bobkats will live on in the players who learned from you, the staff who worked beside you, and the community that you helped build. Your dedication to making a difference in the lives of others will continue to resonate in everything we do. You’ve left an indelible mark on our hearts and on the team, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
Though you may no longer be with us in person, your legacy will live on in the values you instilled in the Bobkat Family. The lessons you taught us—about teamwork, about resilience, and about kindness—will continue to guide us forward. We will continue to make you proud by living the way you showed us: with passion, integrity, and a love for the game.
Thank you, Jimbo, for being an irreplaceable part of our lives. Your memory will forever be a part of the Bobkat Family, and we will carry it with us always. Rest in peace, and know that your light will never fade. You will forever remain in our hearts.
