Samuel Jason Hobi

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Samuel Jason Hobi on February 27, 2025, at the age of 48. He was at home, doing what he loved—exercising. “IronSam”, a devoted husband, father, and leader, leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service to others.

Sam shared 26 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ember Taylor, whom he met in high school and lived across the street from. Ember "knew" he was the one when she was 16 years old; she just had to wait for Sam to realize it. They were "kissing friends" before he served a two-year mission, kept in touch while he served in Albania, and were married less than a year after his return. They lived a life filled with shared dreams, love, and laughter. Together, they raised six beautiful children: Jarom (23), Jennica (21), Jace (20), Abigail (14), Joshua (8), and Jadon (4), who will forever carry his spirit and passion for life, along with two beautiful twin boys who are greeting him in heaven.

Born with a kind heart, a sharp mind, and a tireless work ethic, Sam was known for his generosity, humor, and unwavering dedication to others. A true servant at heart, Sam dedicated his life to uplifting and inspiring those around him. He was a passionate speaker, teacher, and leader, leaving a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Sam graduated from Hurricane High School, then continued his education at Snow College before earning a football scholarship to Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio. He graduated from the Oberlin Honors Economics Program while being team captain of the football team, the NCAC Newcomer of the Year, and All-Conference Player of the Year. His proudest accomplishment, however, was the birth of his first son, who came 15 days early on the one weekend they didn’t have a game, so Sam didn’t miss class or a game! Sam later earned an MBA from the prestigious Columbia University.

He spent 15 years in corporate finance and banking, primarily with GE Capital in Connecticut, New York, and Utah. However, it was his second career in education that brought him the most fulfillment. As a teacher and mentor at American Preparatory School in Utah, Sam found joy and purpose in making a difference in the lives of young people. The last conversation he had with his wife was about how he felt he was finally doing the right job.

Sam’s love for athletics was as boundless as his passion for teaching. His athletic journey continued after college, including competing in multiple Ironman events and qualifying twice for the Ironman World Championships in Kona, where he took on the grueling challenge of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run.

A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Sam’s faith and values were central to his life and family. He shared his testimony and love for others with quiet strength and an enduring commitment to God. Sam had a way with words (some we knew… many we didn’t) that captivated us. "Sam conversations" were never short nor shallow. The cashier at the grocery store, the many strangers sitting next to him on an airplane, the athlete biking or running alongside him, the Amazon delivery driver, and even the random guy who bought our bike rack off KSL all walked away knowing that Sam loved God.

Sam is survived by his loving wife, Ember, and their six children, as well as his sister, Jessica Loebbecke, brother-in-law, Peter Loebbecke, niece, Olivia Loebbecke, aunt, Judy Hodson, and many friends who will miss him dearly.

A viewing will be held on Friday, March 7, from 6:00-8:00 PM at the Mill Hollow Ward, located at 2522 East 6710 South, Cottonwood Heights, Utah 84121. On Saturday, March 8, a second viewing will take place from 10:00-10:45 AM, followed by funeral services at 11:00 AM. There will be a zoom link for him those who can’t attend in person.

In memory of Sam, let us all live with the same dedication to service, love, and joy that he shared so freely throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the family by sending a donation via Venmo to: @becky-apgood

The service will be livestreamed on the Anderson & Goff Mortuary Facebook Page at the following link: 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Funeral-Service---Cemetery/Anderson-Goff-Mortuary-293949407707203/

(The livestream video will appear when the service starts.)