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In Memoriam: Richard Hoblitt (Aug. 12, 1944 – Feb. 2, 2023)

After many years and multiple serious health conditions, Richard Hoblitt passed away on Feb. 2, 2023. He tackled all his health issues head-on with determination and beat the odds repeatedly.

He was born in Silverton, Oregon on Aug. 12, 1944 to Lowell and Mabel Hoblitt. After attending Silverton schools, he enlisted into the Navy at age 17.  He was assigned to the USS Currituck, a seaplane tender. He was assigned to the same ship his entire four years in the Navy. He traveled to many locations in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. He was still in contact with several of his Navy buddies.

After his discharge, he returned to Silverton where he met his future bride, Bonnie Cornwell. They were married on March 10, 1967. He attended auto body school and worked most of his working life in the auto body trade as a painter,
body repair, heavy truck repair and shop foreman.

In 2003, Richard and Bonnie were able to fulfill our dream of full time RV living. They sold everything they owned and took off in a diesel pusher motor home. They both enjoyed this for five years until health issues made traveling too difficult. They bought a house back in their hometown of Silverton in 2006, which gave them many projects to work on fixing up the house.

Richard was such a talented fabricator, fix anything type of guy that he could do most anything around the house, cars, etc. He had lots of hobbies and interests over the years: photography, fly fishing, fly tying, motorcycles, woodworking, machine shop fabricating, welding, RC car building from scratch and RV camping. Richard and Bonnie were fortunate to go on nine cruises and many trips to Kauai, Oahu and the Oregon Coast.

There is comfort that his pain and suffering are gone.  He was a true fighter to the end. Richard’s family wish to thank his wonderful medical team, Drs. Paul Huun, John Strother and staff, Martin Johnson, and Kevin Thompson. Their efforts allowed the family more time with him.

Richard is survived by wife, Bonnie; brother-in-law, Dan Cornwell; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by both his parents, as well as sisters, Linda and Gayle.

At his request there will be no formal service. His wish would be for everyone to enjoy life, do what makes you happy and have a drink in his memory.

Contributions would be welcomed to Vietnam Veterans of America or The International Myeloma Foundation.  Services by Unger Funeral Chapel.