[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 130 (Monday, October 11, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1905]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING ROBERT ``BOB'' HOBKIRK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 8, 2004

  Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay tribute to an 
outstanding citizen of Tyler, TX, the late Bob Hobkirk, who passed away 
on July 29, 2004, at the age of 88.
  Bob Hobkirk served in the U.S. Army for 4\1/2\ years during World War 
II as a drill sergeant and weapons instructor. He was employed by 
Hormel Food Company for 43 years, until he retired in 1977.
  Bob was one of the first presidents of Camp Fannin, a veteran's 
association, that was originally the site for training soldiers in 
World War II. Bob was a loving man who had a ``heart of gold.'' He 
devoted his life to helping veterans of Camp Fannin and was commonly 
the ``go-to'' man when something needed to be resolved. His tireless 
spirit and heart-felt devotion were an inspiration to members of Camp 
Fannin and the community of Tyler.
  Bob is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lois Gimble Hobkirk. Bob 
suffered a stroke 19 months prior to his death, and Lois never left his 
bedside during the duration of his illness. Their marriage was blessed 
with two daughters and a son. Jody Henning, Judy and her husband Olan 
Gotcher, and Robert ``Bob'' Jr. and his wife Pam survive their father. 
Bob is also survived by his granddaughter Tracy Henning, four sisters-
in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.
  Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, on behalf of friends, fans, Camp 
Fannin, and the community of Tyler, I would like to take this 
opportunity in the House of Representatives to pay our last respects 
and honor the life of this great Texan and veteran's advocate--Bob 
Hobkirk.

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