COLUMBUS, Ohio — David Hobson, a former U.S. Representative who dedicated 18 years to Congress, passed away on Sunday at the age of 87. His family reported that he succumbed to a brief illness at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton.
“To us, he was a husband and a father, but he wore many other hats that we’ve been reminded of: a leader, a problem-solver, a counselor, a business partner, a friend — the list is extensive,” his family expressed sorrowfully. “Even in our sorrow, we find moments of laughter recalling old stories, reminding us why he was so dearly loved by many. While we miss him tremendously, we are thankful he has found peace.”
Recognized as a moderate Republican, Hobson was known for his compassion, diligence, and effectiveness. His collaborative spirit is reflected in the tributes pouring in from former colleagues, spanning both Democratic and Republican lines.
“During some intense times in Washington, he was like an older brother and a guide to me,” wrote Republican John Kasich, who transitioned from congressman to Ohio’s governor and later ran for president. “The work we accomplished together fostered a deep friendship.”
Steve Austria, the Republican who succeeded Hobson in Congress, stated that Hobson “will be fondly remembered in Columbus, Washington, and at home for his negotiation skills and his dedication to solving problems for the Springfield area.”
Former Republican House Speaker John Boehner remarked, “I cherished working with him. His absence will be profoundly felt, and he will be remembered for a long time.” Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown acknowledged Hobson’s significant contributions, indicating that he was a key factor in making Ohio a leader in the aerospace industry. “He epitomized the best of Ohio, a state he cherished and served throughout his life,” Brown noted.
Democratic former U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan shared memories of Hobson collaborating with the late Rep. Stephanie Tubbs-Jones in efforts beneficial to Cleveland. “He did this far beyond his own district—it was about the entire state of Ohio,” Ryan wrote.
Hobson first entered Congress in 1990, filling a seat in southwestern Ohio left vacant when fellow Republican Mike DeWine ascended to lieutenant governor. He remained in Congress until 2009, focusing on enhancing and privatizing military housing and securing funding for defense research at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, located within his district, as well as NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.
In a statement, DeWine noted Hobson’s well-regarded judgment and his ability to find common ground. “He was remarkably effective in every position he held, achieving tangible results for his district and the wider nation,” he remarked. DeWine mentioned that even after Hobson retired, they maintained contact, and he would greatly miss his friend’s wise advice.
In 2004, while he was representing Ohio’s 7th Congressional District, Hobson played a pivotal role in establishing a visitor center and memorial at the American Cemetery in Normandy, France, honoring U.S. soldiers who lost their lives in World War II. He was instrumental in securing funding for the $30 million project.
Dedicated in 2007, the memorial features photographs and audio detailing the courageous storming of the French coastline on D-Day, June 6, 1944. The site overlooks Omaha Beach and includes the Walls of the Missing, which bear the names of 1,557 soldiers who remain unaccounted for, set in a semicircular garden.
Born in Cincinnati in 1936, Hobson earned a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and later a law degree from Ohio State University. He also served in the Air National Guard from 1958 to 1963 and was inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame.
Prior to his congressional career, Hobson spent nearly ten years in the Ohio Senate where he held positions as president pro tempore and majority whip. He was known for authoring Ohio’s first comprehensive AIDS legislation and for initiating the first grant programs targeted at treating Alzheimer’s disease.
“The chamber stated he was genuinely a good person who cared deeply for his community and the people of Ohio,” emphasizing the respect he garnered from peers.
After departing from Congress, Hobson became president of Vorys Advisors LLC, aligned with the Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease law firm.
Hobson is survived by his wife, Carolyn, along with three children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
