Ernest Clair Hobson

Ernest Clair Hobson, age 61 of Clinton Township, died Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born October 31, 1956 in Marlette, Michigan, son of Stanley Clair and the late Beatrice Mae (nee: Blackmer) Hobson.A proud employee of General Motors for over 18 years, Ernest extended the best and most determined parts of his hard work ethics to the automotive giant throughout the length of his career. An integral cog in the wheel of the Motor Capital of the world, Ernest found great reward in what he brought to the table, knowing that his efforts were going to be a large part of what GM produced each and every day. And GM couldn't have been more of a fitting place for Ernest to work as he was enamored by anything and everything that had to do with cars. Whether on the line at work,…or wrenching on them in his or someone else's driveway or yard, his fascination for all things automotive far outshined the average person out there. To take it up a notch,...Ernest's automotive allure and enthrallment was also fed by his yearly appetites for the Big Two auto shows that he immersed himself within, the Woodward Dream Cruise and the Gratiot Cruise. Both events afforded Ernest the opportunity to dream, savor, and get up close & personal with some of the finest machines and classic autos in the world,…right here in his own backyard. There's probably millions of guys throughout the world who could only dream of being a part of such shows, and Ernest was a devout and faithful attendee. As his loved ones reflect on how Ernest impacted their lives, they simply could not help but recall the fun and great times they enjoyed camping with Ernest. From the earlier days when they put down stakes at the Woodland Waters Resort in Romeo, to the more recent memories of the awesome times had while camping at the state park in Lakeport, Ernest loved escaping the concrete jungle and heading to a more serene and tranquil environment where getting back to nature, sharing a roaring bonfire, and speaking to strangers was the norm. But to anyone who truly knows the benefits of camping, (and Ernest did) they'll easily attest to the fact that there are no strangers within the confines of a campground,…just one of the amazing aspects that Ernest enjoyed the most. Ernest was also known for his sought-after collectibles, and go figure,…a couple of which were centered around cars. One was enjoyed through his meticulous nature when it came to his collection of model cars, most of which he built from scratch. Pouring the same amount of passion and detail into them as a Swiss watch maker with a precious timepiece, Ernest considered his model cars to be a treasured extension of the artistry that lie within. Yet we're not done acknowledging all that encompassed Ernest when it came to cars. This little bio would be sadly remiss without mentioning his largest collection,…the iconic Matchbox cars that filled his home and heart. Coming from an age when Matchbox cars were right there at the top of most young boys' wish lists, Ernest decided he was going to take things to a different level,…which sparked the beginning of a collection that is rife with cars that have never even made it out of their respective boxes. Still in prime condition and packed away for safe keeping, Ernest always entertained the dream of that "special display" that would pay just the right homage to his massive array of automotive manufacturing,…but on a much tinier scale.Another in his series of collectibles, Ernest was a huge fan of memorabilia associated with the Coca-Cola brand and its retro art used to attract the consumer,…just like himself. His home was filled with the familiar brand's compliment of timeless treasures, pieces that warmed his heart each time he held them close. And lastly, speaking to Ernest's pleasures and the things he enjoyed doing, he loved dabbling with paints, an easel & canvass, and a brush to help convey the artistic gifts he possessed. His paintings were a wonderful expression of himself, and were infused with the same flair that emanated in most everything he created. Yet of all that brought Ernest joy and pleasure, the greatest of these were found in the loved ones that enveloped his life,…his precious family. And of all of them, Ernest held a special place in his heart for the sweetest cherubs,…his adoring grandchildren. There's no more precious memories than the ones we share with those closest to our hearts, and Ernest enjoyed his family immensely. A loving husband, father and grandfather, he was also a cherished friend to many and shared his love unconditionally. Ernest touched a multitude of hearts and souls in his journey through life and leaves an impact that it sure to be treasured with every reflection shared and embraced by those who were blessed to know him. Though he leaves us far too soon, we are comforted by the reality that he is free from pain and safe in the arms of God. He will be missed immensely. Go Rest High, Dear BrotherErnest was the beloved husband of Karen. Dearest son of Stanley and the late Beatrice Hobson. Loving father of Keith Allen (Ruby) Hobson, Brian (Becky) Bartalino, Ernest Hobson Jr., Michael John Halt, and David Hobson. Cherished grandfather of Amber, Dawn, Lilly, Dante, Jacob, Brina, Damian, Ashley, and Dylan. Brother of Donna (Peter) Garthe and Bonnie (Kurt) Flonta. Visitation for Ernest will be held Saturday, January 27th from 10 am – 1:00 pm, with his Funeral Services at 1:00 pm, at Triumphant Cross Lutheran Church, 22310 Thirteen Mile Road in St. Clair Shores. Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road) in Warren. Memorial donations are welcomed to the family. Please share memories of Ernest at his memory book above.