Gilbert Kenneth Hobrock, 79, of Natoma, Kansas passed away Saturday, September 13, 2014 at the Harry Hynes Hospice at Via Christi – St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas.

Gilbert was born June 12, 1935, on the family farm east of Natoma, Kansas, the son of Kenneth David and Ila (Masters) Hobrock.  He grew up east of Natoma and graduated from Natoma High School in 1953.  He then attended Ft. Hays State University.  In 1956, as an IFYE – International Farm Youth Exchange member, he spent four months in Norway.

Gilbert served his country in the U.S. National Guard.

Gilbert was united in marriage to Celeste B. Scott on December 29, 1957 at the Natoma United Methodist Church.  This union was blessed with four children; Roger, Melissa, Marcy and Randall.  They made their home in Natoma.

Gilbert was a proud farmer and rancher.  Being of service to his community was also important to him.  He was a member of the Natoma United Methodist Church.  He served on the Natoma USD 399 Board for over 20 years, was a bus driver for 47 years, served on the Natoma Township Trustees, the Osborne County Fair Board, Osborne County Soil Conservation Board, was a 4-H Leader and refereed basketball games for over 20 years at local high schools and colleges.  However, taking vacations with family and watching his grandchildren grow was held closest to his heart.

Surviving family include his wife of 56 years, Celeste of the home; daughters, Melissa S. McCarty (Darin) of Wichita, Kansas and Marcy J. Schafer (Derek) of Manhattan, Kansas; sons, Roger G. Hobrock (Janette) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Randall D. Hobrock (Shaela) of Concordia, Kansas; brother, Brice G. Hobrock (Shirley) of Manhattan, Kansas; six grandchildren, J.D., Jacob, Travis, Ashley, Tyler and Cole; and great grandson Jeffrey.  His parents preceded him in death.

A Memorial Service honoring Gilbert’s life will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, September 27, 2014 at the Natoma United Methodist Church in Natoma, Kansas.  Burial will follow at the Natoma City Cemetery.  No visitation will be held.  Memorials have been established with the Natoma United Methodist Church and the Natoma Alumni Scholarship Fund. 

Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas.