Nancy Lee Hobbs

Nancy Lee Hobbs passed away peacefully at home in Crandon on April 21, 2026. She leaves behind a lifetime of love and memories that will be carried on in the lives of all who knew her.

She was born December 14, 1945, in Rhinelander, to Norbert and Julia (Thompson) Hageny. From an early age, Nancy devoted herself to everything in her world — to her family, to her faith, and to her home. On May 9, 1964, she married the love of her life, Mike Hobbs, and together they built a beautiful life on Hobbs Farm on the edge of Crandon. Side by side, they created not just a home, but a place where generations gathered, where love was always present, and where life felt full. Their bond was constant and enduring — one that time could never weaken.

At the center of Nancy’s life was her family. As a mom, grandma, and great-grandma, she brought a special kind of warmth and energy — her presence felt, her attention unwavering, and her love given freely. She had a way of making time together feel full, whether in laughter, conversation, or simply being near. To her great-grandchildren, she was affectionately known as “Grandma Moo” — a quiet nod to the farm life that was such a part of her. It’s a name that will carry forward, just like the love she gave so effortlessly and the place she holds in their hearts.

Nancy’s love lived in the little things: candy tucked in her purse, a cup of Lipton tea, the familiar fizz of Pepsi Cola, slippers always on her feet, and the best back scratches that could make everything feel okay.

She found joy in “doing a little bit of everything.” From crafting for art shows, making wreaths, and decorating for every season, Nancy created beauty with her hands and her heart. She loved the Florida sun with friends from near and far, the treasure hunts of flea markets, her collie dogs and angus cows, and tending to her garden. Evenings often meant games of Rummy 500, and Forensic Files or Family Feud — usually with over-buttered popcorn. This was the quiet kind of togetherness that becomes a memory before you even realize it.

Nancy is survived by her six children: Cheryl Hobbs, Kathy (Mel) Flannery, Paula (Todd) Kalata, Jody (Jason) Flannery, Paul “Hambone” (Ranae) Hobbs, and Mary Cochrane. She’s further survived by her brother Jim (Carla) Hageny; sisters Donna Colburn (David Smith), and Norma Riemer; sister-in-law Kathleen Taft, and brother-in-law Charles Wilbur.

Nancy also leaves behind 17 grandchildren: Melissa (Alex) Jensen, Adam (Danielle) Flannery, Hunter Flannery (Shelby), and Stetson Flannery (Avé); Matt (Emily) Kalata, Makenna Kalata (Tyler), and Carson (Halia) Kalata; Jasee (Brett) Novak, Cody Flannery, Mikenzie (Luke) Destiche, and Ty Flannery (Kennedy); Michael Hobbs and Mac Hobbs; Sarah Cochrane (Nyah), Laura Cochrane (Jordan), Zach and Alex Cochrane. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Bradley, Levi, and Rory Jensen; Aubrey and Addilynn Flannery; Sylvie and Iris Kalata; Alaiya, Greyson, and Callen Novak; and James Destiche.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Mike Hobbs; her parents, Norbert and Julia Hageny; sisters Judy Winchell, Mary Freund and Irene Rappley; brothers Tom and John Hageny, along with in-laws Gordon and Elmyra Hobbs, David Hobbs and Margaret Wilbur.

Nancy’s life wasn’t measured in grand gestures, but in the constancy of her love, the comfort she gave so freely, and the memories she leaves behind — woven into the lives of everyone who knew her. A life like hers doesn’t fade. It lives on in the smallest things: in gardens planted, in quiet evenings, and in the warmth of a familiar routine.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A Funeral Mass will be held on May 1, at noon at St. Leonard Catholic Church in Laona with Father Anil Polumari presiding and Father John Cerkas concelebrating. Visitation will be held at church prior to Mass from 9 a.m. to noon. Interment will follow funeral services at Crandon Lakeside Cemetery.

Weber-Hill & Packard Funeral Home of Crandon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to www.weberhillfuneralhome.com.