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Thomas Hobson

1952 - 2025

Thomas Hobson obituary, 1952-2025, Tacoma, WA

BORN

1952

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood

11020 S. Tacoma Way

Lakewood, Washington

Thomas Hobson Obituary

Thomas (Tom) Dale Hobson passed away on December 24, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington. He was born on February 1, 1952, in Palo Alto, California.

At the age of seven, Tom moved to Santa Ynez, California, where he enjoyed a lively upbringing surrounded by siblings and nearby cousins. His mother and stepfather raised a blended family of eleven, while his father remained in Palo Alto, still an active presence in Tom's life.

As a teenager, Tom found joy in surfing, participating in Young Life, working at a gas station, and playing football-both competitively and in his backyard. He was part of a state championship-winning football team and remained a devoted fan of the sport throughout his life. A lifelong coffee enthusiast, he was rarely seen without a cup in hand.

In college, Tom earned a degree in Psychology from California State University, Chico. However, his passion for woodworking led to a fulfilling 40-year career in wood manufacturing. He worked on the shop floor, installed custom woodwork, and eventually moved into management at Specialty Wood Manufacturing in Tacoma. His artistic craftsmanship was displayed in numerous local establishments and featured in art shows across along the West Coast.

Tom met his wife, Kristine (Kris), at Young Life camp when they were just 16. They shared 53 years of marriage and raised two sons in the Puyallup/Tacoma area. Together they welcomed six grandchildren and created lasting family traditions, including an annual summer trip to Seabrook, Washington.

He is remembered for his steady faith, daily prayers, and willingness to help others. His favorite scripture was Psalm 121.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Carolyn Johnson and Kenneth A. Hobson; stepfather Harry Johnson; and several siblings. He is survived by his wife Kris; sons Louis (Noreen) and Jeff (Sonja); six grandchildren (Ellie, Gwen, Thomas, Noah, Charlie, and Haddie); sisters Nancy Wall and Mary Hobson O'Donnell; stepbrothers Mark Johnson (Venita) and Greg (Kathy) Johnson, and a large extended family.

In honor of Tom's life and legacy of loving care for others, please consider extending kindness to someone in need today.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) from Jan. 19 to Jan. 25, 2026.

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3 Entries

Larry Stoops

January 29, 2026

To Kris and family, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I worked with Tom for many years and projects. He was so creative and professional. He will be missed by many.

Craig Welborn

January 24, 2026

To Kris, Jeff, Louis and the Hobson family, I just heard the news, and am sorry to hear of Tom´s passing. Tom helped to teach me many things in the woodworking industry. He was a calming force and wonderful mentor and friend. Godspeed Tom.

Rick Ellingson

January 20, 2026

Hi Kris
So very sorry for your loss. Tom was a great guy, and I enjoyed my years of work with him. His calm demeanor was great in what oft times was very hectic. He was a good man, and no doubt will be missed

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood

11020 S. Tacoma Way, Lakewood, WA 98499

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