A memorial gathering for John E. Hobensack, age 78, of Thornville, will be held on Friday, March 6 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. with Military Honors provided at 6:30 p.m. at The Heath Chapel of Henderson - Van Atta - Stickle Funeral & Cremation Service, 1249 Hebron Road, Heath. 

John passed away February 25, 2026. He was born February 28, 1947 in Whitehall, Ohio to the late Everett and Fanny (Campbell) Hobensack. 

John was a 1964 graduate of Whitehall-Yearling High School in Columbus. Shortly after graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Air Force for six years. Following his military service, John returned home to Columbus where he built both his career and his family with dedication. 

He was named Foster Parent of the Year, along with his wife, for opening their home to more than 28 children providing each of them with a safe, stable, and loving environment.

John was committed to his work in commercial refrigeration, a field in which he not only found success but also advancement and respect. 

John enjoyed spending time with his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life. He looked forward to traveling to Fort Myers, Florida.

He is survived by his three daughters, Brandy (Russell) Crew, Stacey McIntosh, and Kerie Fleming; nine grandchildren, Gaven and Grant McIntosh, Connor (Tacie Shannon) Crew, Cydney Crew, and Caitlyn Crew, Bailee (Anthony) Rynes, Lexsie Fleming, Paityn Fleming and Madilyn Fleming;  mother of his children, Susan (Steve) Pound; brothers-in-law, Raymond Aston, Robert Aston, and Rex (Edina) Peterson; sisters-in-law, Joan Peterson and Joanne Hobensack; son-in-law, Rob McIntosh; and companion, Sue Zerkle; as well as his many nieces, nephews; his beloved foster children and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Kimberly Hobensack;  two brothers, Ron (June) Hobensack and William “Bill” Hobensack;  and step-father, Lester Yarger.

Memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Licking County Veterans Alliance or the Licking County Humane Society.