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Ric and Val concluding their magnificent service leading Service Missionaries in Sydney.

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So glad to have known such an incredible man. He has left a great legacy of faith not only to his family, but all who knew him. His influence has been felt by so many. Lives have been blessed by his great example, including our family. We are grateful to have known him and felt of his strength and dedication to Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father.

Sue and Ian Hearne

England

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An inspiration and wonderful Christlike example

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An inspiration and wonderful Christlike example

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I will truly miss Ric's happy welcoming disposition. As I came to the temple whether as a worker or a patron he always made me feel loved and welcome. Always, making sure I had everything I needed before he left. Always, complimenting those who served in the temple. He truly is a man of God. A great example not only to his family but to all he interacted with.

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I first met Bishop Ric Hobby in 1978 during a bishop’s interview as my husband Kenneth and I prepared for baptism into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was just 24 years old at the time — a young bishop with his devoted wife, Val, and their three small children.

Ric played a significant role in helping my husband, Kenneth, and i build a strong foundation in the Church — a foundation that would eventually see our family grow from two to twenty-two.

Although we only knew Ric and Val for a few short years before they moved with their family to England, the influence they had on our lives was profound. During that time, we learned so much from their example of faith, service, and dedication.

The Hobby family — led by John and Thelma and their family from Payneham Ward, South Australia — were, to us, something of a dynasty. Their devotion to one another and to the Church was deeply inspiring, and they were wonderful role models to all who knew them.

The Ric I knew was every bit the remarkable man others have spoken of, and more. It was a pleasure to later be associated with Ric and Val through one of their business ventures, Karisma Organic Hair Products. They were innovative, visionary, and gifted at inspiring others to succeed.

Rest in peace, Ric. I am sure John, Thelma, and other loved family members are rejoicing with you on the other side of the veil.

Vanessa DeGaris
Sunshine Coast, Queensland

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Uncle Ric is everything I'd want in an uncle. After not really knowing him much as a child - he took me in to stay in his home for 6 weeks when I was a teenager, stayed up late chatting to me for hours when everyone else was in bed, drove me around, introduced me to the julep and was just fun. When he finally moved back to Au, he included my family in lots of fun adventures - camping at Walkabout, jet skiing, abseiling, dirt bike riding, bbqs, temple trips etc. and lots more long chats about the world or gospel doctrine, and of course his crazy life experiences. As I know he did with everyone, he took a genuine interest in me and my kids lives, and shared his powerful testimony with us. His faith is inspiring!

Love Laura

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I often find it difficult to describe what I mean by the light of Christ. I use the word often in lessons and discussions on what we are trying to become here on earth and into eternity, but my it is hard for me to express what I feel about the word 'light' beyond other words like 'love' and 'example'.

The other morning I was heading to a meeting and drove past an elderly couple. They were in the back of their trailer looking at a very heavy table. The husband was pointing to some straps and the wife was in her night gown, standing in the trailer.

My first thought as I drove by was - "they might need help". The table was obviously very heavy and there was no way that they were lifting that off by themselves. My second thought was something like 'but I'll be late for my important church meeting' and my third thought was 'and they have probably just moved the table onto the trailer for transport elsewhere.'

And that's when Ric appeared to me. Not really... but I did see him in my mind. And then I thought 'as if Ric would keep on driving. He would have stopped straight away and turned back and asked if help was needed. He wouldn't care of he might be a little late or probably even if he had the energy himself to help.' I felt in my heart the memory of Ric and his example and his smiling encouragement to do what I can to help.

So, I turned around and helped and left.

And this is now what I understand when I talk of the Light of God and heaven and Christ. It is not just another form of love but is the way that love moves between His children. It is the reverberation of righteousness that helps us to do better. It is the echoes of examples, especially examples of those that are near and dear, that remind us of who we can become.

Christ, the ultimate example, had shown us the way. I am grateful for the examplars, like Ric Hobby, that help us to feel of the light of love directly and memorably.

I will miss Ric. I will remember his loving life and use it, along with other great followers of Christ I have known, to remind myself on how to become more like my Saviour. And hopefully become a light to others as well...

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Thanks for making the celebration ceremony available onliine. Ric had a beautiful heart and soul that touched people around him with his compassion and empathy. Even after he retired after 30+ years, he always made himself available at odd times of his day whenever his support and advice was needed. While he gave so much to those around him, he made his ailments light no matter what they were. Even when I saw him after learning of the cancer that turned his life upside down, he reassured me that "God is good." Ric always reminded me to take the higher road and to be kind. In our calls and texts, we promised each other to meet on top of the mountain. Ric, I will miss you and your lessons will continue to live in my heart.

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Ric taught me the value of generosity. He was constantly making every single person feel seen. He’d come and find me at church every week to give me a hug, a kind word and check in on how my life was going. Whenever my family needed anything, he was always the first person to volunteer to help, whether driving us to church on Sunday or checking in when our parents were away. His constant charity, love for his family, and compassion was so inspiring and will live within ever person whose life he touched. When I was scared to do my driving test, he wrote me a beautiful letter motivating me to step out of my comfort zone, and even bought me my first L plates. He was always willing to go above and beyond to make those around him feel special and was the greatest example of how to live Christlike, we will miss him constantly but remember him daily through his service and wild stories

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Hi Val and Family

Rick was a person whose smile would make you feel loved, even more so when you felt a little dismayed or worried about something. Many of our young ones serving overseas right now are grateful for his love, support, and teaching, whether it be at institute or in the temple. They will have fond memories of your husband, Father, and Grandfather.

Arohanui

John and Michelle Cunniffe

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David & Penelope Craig

Sending our love to Val and the family, immediate and extended.

Ric was always larger then life, and a delight to serve with in the temple. His smiling face was always evident. He is a devoted, faithful and much loved servant of the Lord. He was always the first to volunteer when any service opportunity presented, and fulfilled any assignment with joy, delight and great accomplishment.

His legacy of love and example will always burn bright in our remembrances of him. His humility and love for the Saviour far overshadowed his many unspoken accomplishments, of which he was always reluctant to share.

And Val is always the quiet strength enabling him in his service to others and especially to the Lord.

We love him and will miss him, for now, but look forward to a sweet reunion when we graduate to where he is.

All our love and best wishes,

Pene and David

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Such a wonderful service to honour the life of a truly great man! I’m sure you will spend many hours together as a family in remembrance and celebration of all the good and happy times you’ve had. So many stories to tell... Thanks for the brilliant talks Ben and Seth and the vivid snapshot of his incredible life. Rest in peace Uncle Ric🪽Much love to you all. Shanna

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My sincere condolences to you, Val, and your precious family. I remember being so excited to discover another Australian LDS family — and relatives of a dear friend — living close to me when I was in Berkshire. You welcomed me into your home with such warmth and love, and introduced me to your famous ‘Julip’ (is that what you called it?) ice-cream desserts. Your family is a wonderful example of steadfast values, integrity, kindness, and deep love for one another and for all whose lives you touch. Something that Ric and Val excelled at. Thank you xxx

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I’ve only known Ric in my adult years, but he sure has had an impact on me and my family.

My first time riding a dirt bike was at the hobby farm. I was nervous and unsure, I was as made to feel welcome and supported and off I went. I was told 1 rule, “stay on the path”. I grew more confident as I continued doing my laps round that I thought I could cut through a section to avoid going around a tree (for some reason it seems “easier”). I learnt my lesson quickly after I ended up in a wombat hole. Despite my bruise body and ego, Ric kindly and gently encouraged me to continue riding. I spent many camping trips there and was so grateful to have cherished memories with Ric and his family. I earnt a new nickname from Ric - Kawasaki Kita.

In small and quiet efforts I was the recipient of Rics service as I prepared for my mission and came home from my mission and attended his institute classes. I experienced some of the most profound spiritual learning and testimony building moments.

As beautifully said during the service, he really did have a smile for everyone.

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Beautiful service, well done all. Uncle Ric always gave the best hugs whenever he was around. He was always so warm and genuinely cared for everyone. He could outlast anyone with fascinating conversation until early hours of the morning. Much love all.

Georgia

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I usually hate early mornings but a 2.30am wake up this morning was never going to be a challenge for me as it was a privilege to join the live stream and to see you all again and to hear the beautiful words & music. We shared in so many of those memories with the Hobby family during your time in the UK 🥰. I served with Ric in various ways but the most special time was when he asked me to share in teaching Institute classes with him. Seeing him in action I was daunted to fulfil that role but his counsel and support led me through a period of such spiritual growth in my life & I treasure those times in my heart for I would not have such a strong spiritual foundation of my testimony if it was not for him. Much love to you all, from Honor ❤️

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Ric was always fearless in everything he did.  One of my great memories at Alberton Oval at a Port game, he would bait the Central Districts cheer squad.  The great lesson he taught me was life is about attitude.

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Ric was always fearless in everything he did.  One of my great memories at Alberton Oval at a Port game, he would bait the Central Districts cheer squad.  The great lesson he taught me was life is about attitude.

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Sending all our love to the Hobby Family - We will fondly remember our time spent with you all in Uncle Ric and Aunty Val's home for family dinners . Toby mentioned Ric giving him three scoops of ice cream! (and saying he could have more if he wanted). I know Jenny is there giving out lots of hugs on our behalf,

Collette, Hayden and fam xx

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Travelling with Seth to a football match in Liverpool, I became aware that his presence and kindness were far greater than anything I had been used to. Before we left, he insisted on packing his homemade ham sandwiches for the journey.

I was also one of many who benefited from a “Granny Banny” sandwich after a London Temple session, where Ric, with that huge smile of his, quietly paid the bill for most of the people in the shop. He was genuinely happy to do it.

Looking back now, I realise that nearly every moment I shared with Ric involved him serving, feeding, or caring for others in some way.

Mac

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Thank you Ric for being such a fine example to all who where blessed to meet you.

Much love and appreciation,

Linda Bushell

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It has been such a wonderful blessing to see the impact Ric has had on Service Missionaries and Temple Workers. He was brilliant, organised and the best example of providing everyone with an uplifting and sincerely loving experience.

Oh how we all miss him! Much love to the Hobby family. Ilet Grgich

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Peter Mason just one of many things Ric taught me.

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Peter Mason just one of many things Ric taught me.

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Serving on our ward Young Men’s Presidency, Ric had concerns that a number of our YM were not attending seminary, which was early morning.

We had none of our own children of Seminary age at the time, Rics suggestion was that we, as a YM Presidency, pick up those youth that were currently not attending.

Why? I asked. That would mean a 5.30am start for us!

Rics answer, “Because we can”

Something that I have never forgotten.

A truly remarkable man.

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I didn't know Ric very well, but I genuinely admired him and his perpetual kind smile. Sending my love and condolences to Val and all the Hobby family xo

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A beautiful service for my kind, mysterious, and sometimes cheeky Uncle Ric. Much loved and remembered. Love to you all, Del xx

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Lovely funeral service, I have a vivid memory of Uncle Ric at grandmas funeral and he was the only one smiling which was confusing for me as everyone else was sad. I asked him why he was smiling and happy and he said he knew he would see her again in heaven one day. Hoping they are having a lovely reunion.

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Beautiful Seth. Lovely words for your Dad - Lexi xxxx

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We love and miss Ric. What love we felt from him, which started when we worked in the temple together. It became our weekly highlight. His smile, love and kindness lit us up and helped heal the cares of the world. Ric gave us life changing advise, which helped us focus our lives more on Jesus Christ. That advice was, of course, perfectly aligned with his consistent and powerful discipleship of Jesus Christ.

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Dear Ric,

You changed many people’s lives including mine. You set up a model as our North Star.

Thank you, a real gentleman!

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I count myself eternally fortunate to have had the blessing and influence of Ric in my life since the age of 6. He shaped my childhood, teenage years, and young adulthood in more ways than I can count. I will remember him so fondly for the man he was to me.

Love you all

James M

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Beautiful Ben. Sending you all so much love xx - Lexi

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Dear Ric,

You are deeply and dearly missed. Thank you for all the inspiring stories you shared, and more importantly, for the humility, kindness, and calmness you showed throughout your life. You were truly a legend, and your presence touched so many people in meaningful ways.

Rest in peace, Ric. You will always be remembered with love and respect.

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Dear Ric,

You are deeply and dearly missed. Thank you for all the inspiring stories you shared, and more importantly, for the humility, kindness, and calmness you showed throughout your life. You were truly a legend, and your presence touched so many people in meaningful ways.

Rest in peace, Ric. You will always be remembered with love and respect.

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Danny and Cyndee Hamilton send our Love to Val and her family at this time. We were very grateful for his guidance in the Temple.

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We miss Brother Hobby.

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Hearing The Sad News About Our Brother Ric Hobby Made Me Very Sad. He Was Always Nice And A Good Friend To When Ever We Saw Each Other At The Quakers Hill Chapel.

I Khow In My Heart He In Heaven Greeted By Our Other Brothers From The Ward That Passed On In God Loving Care. I Am Honoured To Call Him A Friend As Well As A Brother. He Touched So Many People. He Will Be Missed By Our Ward.

God Bless Him And His Family 🙏🤲

Mohd (Mohammed)

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1975 Ric and Val's wedding - Family photo