Phillipsburg resident, Harlan Hobbs, passed away Friday, January 12, 2024 at the Phillips County Hospital in Phillipsburg at the age of 85.

Harlan was born August 25, 1938 in King City, MO the son of John Earl and Opal (Davidson) Hobbs.

Harlan found his soulmate in Dorene A. Fessler, and they tied the knot in Phillipsburg on May 25, 1985. Together, they built a beautiful life surrounded by family, friends, and many happy moments.

Harlan was a skilled engineer who devoted his life to his work at KDOT. He worked hard for many years until his retirement in 1992, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence and professionalism.

How do you describe a man that was, for the most part, indescribable.  Harlan once called himself an oddity, we can't say we disagree.  He was extremely intelligent but never boisterous, if you wanted to know something, "Ask Harlan". Harlan was an excellent mentor, always willing to lend a hand to those who were eager to help themselves.  He was gentle but firm, honest' and trustworthy.  Harlan loved sharing his knowledge, humor, and talent.  He hated crowds but loved people and one on conversations.

He loved hunting and when he was no longer able he would hunt by proxy.  He liked fishing as long as he didn't have to eat what he caught. Harlan also loved sports and local youth sports were one of his favorites and he tried to support them in any way he could.  He often would bring bananas to the football game for the boy's leg cramps.  He coached  junior air rifle and pistol with Mark, Marla, and the rest of the team.  They traveled all over the country, including Mexico for competitions.

As his Parkinson's progressed, he refused to let it hold him back from discovering new abilities. He realized the internet was a great resource for both shopping and acquiring new skills, and reveled in the opportunity to explore a whole new world. He was convinced that using pvc pipe, duct tape, and cardboard, you could make just about anything. He constantly drew up plans for James to bring his ideas to life.

Harlan was preceded in death by his parents John and Opal Hobbs; daughter Marla Hobbs; brother Farrell and his wife Sheryl; mother-in-law Lola Fessler; brother-in-law Mel Fessler; and a niece Neina Quillen.

Survivors include his wife Dorene of Phillipsburg; son Mark Hobbs and wife Melody of Seneca, KS; step sons Scott and wife Lori and Steve and wife Joni Ellenberger, all of Kirwin, KS; step daughters Staci Minkler and husband James of Phillipsburg and Shelli Lopez and husband Frank of Cortez, CO; 17 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; brother-in-law Douglas Fessler and wife Rosealee of California; sister-in-law's Susan McClaren of Arizona and Nelda Bowen and husband Tom of Phillipsburg; along with nieces, nephews, and a wonderful group of friends.

Harlan loved his children and then he was blessed with grandchildren and the cherry on top was those precious great grandbabies.  He always always made sure the grandbabies had "traveling money" before they left. Harlan's got a heart of gold, and it's no surprise that everyone who's crossed paths with him has their own little tale to tell. We're always up for a good story, so don't be shy! Keep the memories coming and share them with us and the rest of the world.

Cremation was planned.  A memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 20th, 2024 in the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Joel Hiesterman officiating. Services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. for visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillipsburg High School Athletic Dept.