Paul S. Hobaica, Who Brought Air Conditioning to the Valley of the Sun, Dies at 93
Paul S. Hobaica, founder of Hobacia Services, Phoenix, AZ died on Saturday, Oct. 4 at the age of 93. Born of Lebanese immigrants on July 25, 1921 in Cardenas, Cuba, Hobaica was 3 years old when his family moved to Phoenix.
He enlisted in the Army soon after high school and served with the 28th Infantry Division. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and the Invasion of Normandy, and received the Bronze Star and Good Conduct medal.
Paul Hobaica founded Hobaica Refrigeration in 1952, working out of a three-car garage in Glendale, AZ. He soon moved to Phoenix, where there were greater opportunities in commercial refrigeration. Residential air conditioning became the company's main business during the 1960s, thanks to the growth of forced air systems over evaporative coolers. Air conditioning quickly became a "must have" service.
As conditioning’s popularity grew, the company experienced slow but steady growth. The senior Hobaica did his best to provide for his family of seven children, and put them all through college. He was also committed to helping those less fortunate than himself.
"My father founded the business on two basic principles: the more you give, the more the good Lord will provide; and, always treat others as you would want to be treated," his son, Louis explained in an article on the company when it was named ContractingBusiness.com 2011 Residential Contractor of the Year.
"He provided free service, repair and installations for non-profit organizations, churches and families in need. Nobody went without comfort with Hobaica's Refrigeration around," son Paul added.
Paul Hobaica married the love of his life, Elizabeth Mayhew, on February 14, 1952. He was very active in his church and the community, and always gave of his time to help the less fortunate. He was much loved by his family and friends and will be deeply missed. Paul is survived by daughters and husbands, Margaret and Paul Goble, Dennize and Larry Taylor; sons and wives, Paul and Debbie, Louis and Jane, Michael and Jeannene, Matthew and Ruanne, Mark and Tondi; (20) grandchildren and (11) great grandchildren.
Visitations: Friday, Oct 10 from 6-7PM followed by a Rosary and a sharing of memories from 7-8:30PM at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 8620 N. 7 St, Phoenix, AZ. Funeral/Mass: Saturday, Oct 11, 11AM at Most Holy Trinity. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: St. Vincent de Paul at Most Holy Trinity, 8630 N. 7 St., Phoenix, AZ 85020.