Wallace B. Hobart Jr.

Wallace “Wally” Belshaw Hobart Jr., of Powell, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, at the age of 89. He was born on February 25, 1937, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Rose Campobello Hobart and Wallace Belshaw Hobart.

Wally was raised in Rockford, Illinois, where he attended Rockford West High School. It was there that he developed a lifelong appreciation for friendships and social activities. Wally also had an enduring love of learning. He was naturally curious and continually expanded his knowledge, exploring a remarkable range of subjects throughout his lifetime.

Wally attended the University of Wisconsin, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. It was also at the University of Wisconsin that he met the love of his life, Ellen Ione Bruss. They were married on August 6, 1960, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, beginning a devoted partnership that lasted 66 years.

Wally built a highly successful career in sales and business leadership. He began his career with 3M in Chicago and went on to serve as president of Tekra Corporation in Milwaukee, Murfin Corporation in Columbus, Ohio, Preco Industries, Inc. in Lenexa, Kansas, and Diversified Leasing and Funding in Worthington, Ohio. A charismatic and respected leader, Wally took great pride in everything he did. He believed in excellence and held himself and those around him to high standards.

Wally also proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1960 to 1968, attaining the rank of Captain before receiving an honorable discharge.

Wally and Ellen began their married life in Chicago. Over the years, career opportunities and retirement took them to Wisconsin, Kansas, and ultimately Ohio. Together, they shared a love of travel, enjoying adventures both internationally and throughout the United States.

Wally had many interests and hobbies. He enjoyed fishing, fixing things around the house, reading, watching sports, and, above all, being with people. He was an enthusiastic cook who loved preparing meals for family and friends, and he treasured the gatherings and conversations that brought people together. He always had his camera ready to capture special moments with those he loved. His warmth, humor, curiosity, and genuine interest in others made him a memorable presence and excellent storyteller wherever he went.

But Wally’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband to Ellen, an attentive and encouraging father and father-in-law, and a proud and involved grandfather. He delighted in attending his grandchildren’s activities and hearing about the many things happening in their lives. His family was at the center of his world, and the time he spent with them was among his greatest sources of happiness.

Wally is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen; his children, Jane Hobart Walsh (Dan) and Tim Hobart (Ronda); his grandchildren, Jonathan Walsh, Kate Walsh, Colin Hobart (Maddie), and Charlie Hobart; his sister, Rosemarie Hobart; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Wally will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his curiosity and lifelong commitment to learning, his leadership, his generosity, and his ability to bring people together. His presence enriched the lives of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Wally’s life will be celebrated at a private funeral on September 26, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or a cause close to your heart in memory of Wally.

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