CHICAGO (August 2, 2007) - Paul Tobin, the founder of Official Sports International, has passed away at the age of 65.

OSI is well known throughout U.S. Soccer for its longtime commitment and service to the entire soccer referee community at every level in the United States and abroad. OSI has served as the exclusive supplier of USSF Referee apparel and accessories since 1998.

Tobin was also the President of Shez, the official soccer uniform supplier and replica licensee for the NASL and MISL. Previously he worked for Johnson & Johnson for 34 years in various capacities in Chicago, New Jersey and Indiana. He most recently resided in Warsaw, Ind.

Tobin was born in Oct. 3, 1941 in Waukegan, Ill., and is a graduate of Marquette University. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary Louise, his three children (Paul, Julie and Lynn), and nine grandchildren.

Visitation is planned for Thursday from 3 to 9 p.m. CT at Salerno's Galewood Chapels in Chicago (1857 N. Harlem Ave.). Friends and family will meet Friday at Holy Name Cathedral (Superior & State St.) in Chicago for visitation at 9:30 a.m., until the time of Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, 1140 W. Jackson, Chicago, IL 60607 are appreciated. Info: 773-889-1700

OSI currently provides every piece of gear and equipment associated with refereeing a game, including shirts, shorts, socks and other accessories, like whistles, cards and flags. In addition to all U.S. Soccer referees, OSI also supplies uniforms to referees in the English Premier League. For more information on OSI log on to officialsports.com, and check out U.S. Soccer's Referee Program at ussoccer.com.