John Randy Hobbs, affectionately known as Hobbsy, passed away on October 28, 2025, in Ottawa, Ontario, at the age of 58, following a short but mighty battle against cholangiocarcinoma.

Early Life

Born with his twin brother Scott, John was part of a lively family that included his siblings Pat, Korena (deceased), Kelly, and Lorelei. From an early age, John and Scott were inseparable — always referred to simply as "the twins." Growing up on the family farm until the age of 12, the two spent their days swinging on the rope in the barn, playing on their homemade baseball diamond, or defending their fort built on the rock pile.

John was known for his fiery spirit and passionate nature — traits that made him unforgettable. His temper became the stuff of family legend, beginning at a young age; one memorable story recalls six-year-old John putting his fist through a window after being teased by his older brother Pat.

A Life Of Sports

Sports were a lifelong love for John. As a teen, he became a talented long-distance runner and baseball player. Later, during his military career, his athletic interests expanded to include rugby and volleyball. Whether on the field or in life, John played with intensity, heart, and a fierce will to win.

Military Career

John dedicated over 30 years of his life to serving his country with the Canadian Armed Forces. He first enrolled as a Military Police officer, but when color blindness prevented him from continuing in that trade, he remustered to the medical field — a change that would define the rest of his distinguished career.

His service took him across Canada and wherever he went, he made lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues. Throughout his career, John deployed numerous times, answering the call whenever his country needed him. He served alongside some of Canada's finest, sharing both the challenges and camaraderie that define military life. He also found joy in parachuting with his company — loving every moment he spent jumping out of planes.

Those who served with him remember John as a remarkable person with an infectious (as John would say, like Hep C) laugh and an amazing smile. He was the kind of leader and professional others aspired to be — always kind, always full of humor, and always present. Whether working in Ottawa, Edmonton, Shilo, or elsewhere, John left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

Family Life

John is survived by his beloved wife, Marie-Claude (MC) Magnan; his children Tamera, Victor and Juliette. He was a devoted father who cherished his children and took pride in watching them grow. He is also survived by his twin brother Scott, and siblings Pat, Kelly, and Lorelei, as well as extended family and countless friends who will miss him dearly.

His Legacy

John will be remembered for his greatness — the kind he showed throughout his entire life. His strength, his passion, his loyalty to friends and family, and his unwavering commitment to service made him the man so many loved and admired. 

To those who knew him: find the greatness he showed his whole life, shine as he did, and be strong as he was.

Celebration of Life 

Sunday, November 2, 2025
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

• The Royal Canadian Legion Montgomery Branch #351
330 Kent Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2A6

Program:

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Gathering and arrival

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM - Ceremony


Virtual attendance available via Zoom:
https://us05web.zoom.us/launc…


Meeting ID: 853 2086 9826


Passcode: 356739

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Refreshments and fellowship

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion.

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