William Samuel Hobbs

June 15, 1936 – May 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William (“Bill”) Samuel Hobbs of Ann Arbor, Michigan, who departed this life on May 16, 2025, at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends.

Born on June 15, 1936, Bill was a lifelong resident of Ann Arbor who was known for his warm presence, sense of adventure and unwavering support for those he loved.

Bill was a skilled athlete and leader. He attended the original Ann Arbor High School where he was quarterback of the football team, captain of the basketball team and also a letterman in baseball and track.

Bill graduated from the University of Michigan’s architecture school in 1958. During architecture school, he had the honor of meeting Frank Loyd Wright, whose architecture he admired greatly. At Michigan, he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and U of M is where he met his future wife, Lynn. After graduation, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard where he served in the reserves for many years.

Bill apprenticed as an architect with David Osler for five years. He then received his architecture license and opened his own business. In 1965, he partnered with another Michigan graduate, Richard Black, who not only was an extremely talented designer, but also a true friend. The two formed Hobbs + Black Associates, a well-respected Ann Arbor-based architecture firm that has endured 60 years. Bill and Richard spent decades shaping the landscape of southeastern Michigan and beyond, through thoughtful, enduring design. Bill mentored many architects, designers and employees over the years, leaving a legacy not only in structures but in the people he inspired. He loved the business and was very dedicated, coming into work even at 88 years old. His work ethic was commendable.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill loved U of M sports and he held season tickets for football and basketball for over 50 years. He always enjoyed taking family and friends to games. He refused to leave the games until the bitter end - even when it was cold outside and even if Michigan was losing. Bill was a true Wolverine.

Bill also loved a good party and entertaining his friends. He hosted many gatherings at his cottage on Center Lake, making his famous mac & cheese (wink: Stouffers). Also, Bill’s Hobbs + Black holiday parties were legendary.

Bill was also a great father to his four daughters. They have fond memories of camping and backpacking with him, as well as vacations to Florida, the Rose Bowl, South Africa, and Mackinac Island to attend the Michigan AIA summer conferences.

Bill was a cherished friend to many. His deep and lasting friendships in both Ann Arbor and Jackson were a source of joy and strength throughout his life. Bill nurtured connections that spanned decades—always listening, always present, always fun, always kind.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Ruth Hobbs and Wendell Hobbs, his brother, Robert Hobbs, and his business partner, Richard Black.

Bill is survived by his ex-wife Lynn Hobbs, and his loving daughters: Susan (Chuck Cornelison) Lilly, Karen (Keith) Mullins, Amy (Tony) Iannone, and Betsy (Jason) Wagner. He was a proud grandfather to Joe Lilly, Caroline Lilly, Ben Van Court, and Alli Van Court, Mary (Chase) Gingerich, Sophie Iannone, Nathan Wagner and Elise Wagner. He was a caring uncle to Matthew Hobbs, Andrew Hobbs and Ashley (Kathy Johnson) Hobbs, Eric Scultz, and Carrie (Shultz) Fulp. Bill’s legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Carson Gingerich and Millie Gingerich, who brought him immense joy.

Visitation will be held at Muehlig Funeral Chapel on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 1– 4p.m. A service in Bill’s honor will be held at Muehlig Funeral Chapel at 2 p.m. on Friday May 30, 2025, followed by a celebration of life gathering at Hobbs + Black Architects, immediately following the service.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to incredible staff at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital on the third floor. They went above and beyond to care for Bill in the last five weeks of his life. Also, gratitude to the staff of Atria Park of Ann Arbor for the kind and compassionate care he received as a resident for the last year and a half of his life.

Donations may be made in Bill’s honor to the Taubman School of Architecture (Link Below).