Gary K Hobbs

Gary K. Hobbs, founder of Hobbs Pharmacy on Merritt Island, passed on to the heavens January 30, 2023, at home surrounded by his family. He was born in St. Louis, Michigan on September 1, 1932 to Dr. A. Deane Hobbs and Elizabeth (Koplin) Hobbs.

Gary met and married the love of his life, Patricia (Rhynard), in high school. They were married in 1953 while Gary was attending the University of Michigan and Pat was attending Eastern Michigan University. In 1955, Gary received his pharmacy degree and a year later, Pat a degree in Occupational Therapy. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army as a Medic, then returned to Michigan to start his pharmacy career. In 1961, Gary and family moved to Cocoa Beach and in 1964, he opened Hobbs Pharmacy on Merritt Island. The pharmacy became an institution on the Island, serving the workers and families of the emerging space program, and continues in operation today. He was extensively involved in his community with the Merritt Island Kiwanis Club, the Mustang Quarterback Club and served as an elder at Merritt Island Presbyterian Church. Upon retirement, Gary and Pat set off in their motor home to various destinations across the U.S. They built a family cabin in Blowing Rock, NC and spent summer in the mountains and winters on the Island. He loved the outdoors and worked diligently in his orange grove, accompanied his sons on numerous hunting trips, helped out at the church, visited his sons and daughter, and cared deeply for all of us. He was a great man to just spend time with.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bill. He is survived by sister Carlotta (Portland, Oregon), his wife Pat, his son Bradley (Christy, Casey, and Amanda), son Mark (Kim, Garrett and Alex) daughter Julia (Andrew) and son Craig (Yve and Chanelle.)

A memorial service will be held at a future time. At Gary’s request, those who wish to remember him may make gifts to the Merritt Island Presbyterian Children’s Daycare program (600 S. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL 32952)