Gilbert Jonathan Hoban

Gil Hoban died peacefully on Wednesday. A resident of Moosic, he was the beloved husband of Rita Fendrych, his soul mate of 23 years.

His goal in life was to make people laugh, support and encourage his friends and befriend strangers. He was adored by his three nieces and seven nephews, who were lavished with his generosity and support. He will be remembered by countless friends and associates for his great humor, giving heart, million-dollar smile and gift of spreading joy through his storytelling. He will be long remembered for his annual Nationwide Golf Tournament extravaganza at his home. Gil graduated from Lapeer High School in Michigan and received his BA from the University of South Florida in business and management. He spent most of his professional career in broadcasting in Detroit, Cleveland and New York City. He moved to Scranton in 1987, to join WOLF TV as general manager. Gil retired from broadcasting in 1999 and established Hoban Development, a real estate ownership and property management firm. Gil was active in many local Scranton charities, enjoyed mentoring children and encouraging young professionals to achieve their career goals. His interests were diversified, including local politics. He was a beloved member of Glenmaura National Golf Club and won the Chairman's Cup Invitational in 2008. As a native of Detroit, he loved to recount his favorite Motor City days of Lafayette's Coney Islands, Vernor's Ginger Ale and Long Neck Stroh's. He supported the Detroit sports teams, even in losing seasons and took great joy in reunions with Michigan family and friends. Gil enjoyed traveling with Rita, the love of his life. She loved and cared for him from the day they met and never wavered, even during his final illness.

He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Norma Hoban, Grace Gilchrist, Howard Hoban, Rosie Gilchrist, Les Hoban and Mike Hoban, Metamora, Mich.; Patricia Hoban-Moore, Virginia; Cathie Hoban, Dallas, Texas; and his brother-in-law, Fred and wife, Lori. He was worshipped by Spike the Wonder Dog.

A Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Gil's life will be held at Divine Mercy Parish at 312 Davis St., Minooka, on Saturday, at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass. Interment, Cathedral Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made in Gil's name to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411; or Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, 600 Renaissance Center, Suite 1720, Detroit, MI 48243. Arrangements entrusted to the Solfanelli-Fiorillo Funeral Home Inc., 1030 N. Main Ave., Scranton. Visit www.solfanellifiorillofuneral home.com for information, directions or to leave an online condolence.