Donald Richard Hober

Donald Richard Hober, age 90, peacefully passed away on July 27, 2023, in his cherished Southern California residence, where he had lived for 29 years. He is survived by his partner, Roxanne Templeton, his daughter, Susan Wegner (Steve), and his beloved grandson, Hayden Bukas. Donald is also survived by three nieces, Patricia Thompson (Doug), Becky Ramage, and Connie Osborne (Jim). A celebration of his life will be held on November 4, 2023, at the home of dear friends in California.

Early Life and Education

Don was born in Oakdale, Nebraska, and spent his formative years in Clutier, Iowa, with his parents, Fred and Cleao, and his older brother, Roger, all of whom preceded him in death. After graduating from Clutier High School in 1951, Don proudly served overseas in the Army of the United States from November 19, 1953, to November 10, 1955, achieving the rank of Specialist Third Class.

Following his honorable discharge from active duty, Don attended and graduated Cum Laude from Coe College, a private liberal arts college in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. He subsequently worked as an admissions counselor for Coe College, where he recruited students in the Chicago, Illinois territory while maintaining his residence in Cedar Rapids.

Career and Passion

Don's career path eventually led him to Chicago, where he embarked on a lifelong journey in the Hospitality Business. By 1962, he co-owned Some Other Place Pubs, a popular pub and nightclub located in three different Chicago suburbs, affectionately known as S.O.P.'s. The establishment drew crowds of Chicago sports celebrities and enthusiasts who enjoyed dining and dancing.

In 1973, Don followed his heart to sunny Southern California, where he continued to work tirelessly despite facing a major health setback—a massive heart attack at the age of 40 in the summer of 1974, followed by open-heart surgery in 1976. Undeterred, he remained committed to his career in Southern California, both in hospitality and consulting.

Interests and Passions

In his earlier years, Don had the opportunity to travel to various continents. He had a deep love for sports, avidly reading the daily newspaper cover to cover, closely following political news broadcasts, and engaging in spirited political debates. Additionally, he relished spending time with family and cherished friends, had a great appreciation for music (from classical to classic rock, with a special fondness for the Electric Light Orchestra - ELO), and possessed a remarkable talent for storytelling. His infectious smile could light up any room, and his anecdotes were fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of hearing them. Don also harbored a profound love for animals, a passion that found its height during one of his most memorable adventures—a safari in Africa. He enjoyed the experience of observing wildlife in their natural habitat. Closer to home, he loved visiting zoos. Throughout his life, Don also welcomed several furry companions into his heart as beloved pets.

Life Well-Lived

Despite managing his heart disease for an astounding 50 years, Don lived a rich and fulfilling life. He will be dearly missed by many.

In Loving Memory of

Donald R. Hober

God looked around His garden and He found an empty place.

He then looked down upon this earth and He saw your tired face.

He put His arms around you and lifted you to rest.

God’s garden must be beautiful; He always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering.

He knew you were in pain.

He knew that you would never get well on earth again.

He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb.

So, He closed your weary eyelids, and whispered “Peace be thine”.

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone. For part of us went with you the day God called you home.