One of the kindest, most sincere residents of Heidelberg passed away on July 28 and there is no doubt that the void that was created when Les Hobbs (78) bid farewell to this cruel world will not be filled any time soon.
Les was a true scholar and gentleman – perhaps one of the last in a breed that is becoming scarcer by the day. Although he was by no means the tallest of men, he always stood up for what he believed in and never hesitated to let even the biggest most intimidating men who failed to behave in a gentlemanly manner understand that they were in the wrong.
He did so with grace and commanded the respect of everyone who had the privilege of interacting with him. Les initially kept to himself when he first arrived in town six years ago, but soon became a trusted friend to many who enjoyed his company.
Backed with a wealth of knowledge he accumulated by reading almost everything he could get his hands on, Les could easily engage in conversation with intellectual giants, but he treated even the most obnoxious creatures in this town with the same esteem he would those he really cared for.
To put the general knowledge of this inconspicuous man into perspective; this walking encyclopaedia refused to follow the rest of the crowd when smartphones became the craze. He rarely had the urge to google anything (he occasionally asked to have his facts verified electronically) as he had most information on a wide range of topics at his fingertips. What he lacked in brute power and size he made up with a presence that will truly be missed.
Those who knew the kind spirit who insisted on standing next to the counter at Sol Nascente, can confess that he was a humble human who possessed a great sense of humour. Prior to his retirement Les was a chartered accountant for SARS and played provincial hockey during his youth.
He was an avid follower of all sports and those who really knew him, will also miss the applause he gave when he felt it was deserved. Many will remember the way he would clap his hands together when a remark had him laughing from the stomach.
Les will be mourned by his two daughters and a host of friends who had the privilege of spending time with him.
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