Hulbert Mulock Bannister

Hulbert Mulock Bannister “Hobie,” 83, passed away on October 5, 2026, in West Des Moines, Iowa. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 16, 2026, at Iles Jordan Creek Chapel (7150 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, IA). Family will greet guests at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Following services, the family invites guests for a celebration of life reception at Des Moines Golf and Country Club starting at 12:15 p.m.

Hobie was born in Des Moines, Iowa on October 28, 1942, to Thomas and Margaret (Mulock) Bannister. He was a man of extraordinary character, a good and pure soul who believed in showing up for people, being available for others, and giving back to his community. He never missed an important milestone in the lives of those he loved, and he had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Hobie shared a lifelong and loving marriage spanning 59 years with his wife, Dawn. His devotion to her was one of the defining qualities of his life. He took immense pride in his family and cherished the relationships he built throughout the years.

For more than 25 years, Hobie was a beloved grandfather and a constant source of encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love. His grandchildren will remember his bright smile, his gentle spirit, and the sweetest voicemails he left for them. They will treasure the simple traditions that became precious memories, including raspberry pancake breakfasts with cranberry juice on the side. Above all, they will remember a grandfather who was always there.

Hobie was also deeply committed to serving his community. His civic involvement spanned decades and included service on numerous boards, committees, and charitable organizations. He served on the Board of the Des Moines Golf and Country Club, including the role of President during the 1999 U.S. Senior Open. He also served on the Board of Orchard Place until 2010, continuing his commitment to supporting children, families, and the community. Among his many volunteer and leadership roles, he also served on the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board of Directors, where he dedicated approximately nine years from 1976 to 1985. He was involved with the Variety Club of Iowa Telethon, coached soccer for six years from 1973 to 1979, and served as a Sunday school teacher at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

His commitment to Des Moines and the surrounding community extended to the Traffic and Transportation Committee, parks and recreation efforts, the Polk County Cancer Society, and the Polk County Cancer Crusade, where he served as chairman. He was also active with the Des Moines Jaycees, serving in leadership and social chairman roles.

Hobie continued his tradition of community and organizational leadership throughout the 1990s and 2000s. He served on boards and held positions including secretary, vice president, and president, as well as chairing events and committees. He later served on the Prairie Meadows Charity Board, continuing his lifelong commitment to supporting organizations and causes that strengthened his community.

Whether coaching a child, serving on a board, organizing an event, supporting a charitable cause, or simply sitting down to talk with someone, Hobie gave his time generously. He loved meeting new people and formed friendships wherever he went. His leadership was never simply about a title, it was about service, relationships, and making a difference.

Those who knew Hobie will remember him not only for all that he accomplished, but for the way he made people feel. He was a gentleman in the truest sense of the word: kind, welcoming, dependable, humble, and deeply devoted to the people he loved.

He gave generously of his time to his family, his community, and the many organizations fortunate enough to have him serve.

His family will forever be grateful for the years they were blessed to have him.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife; Dawn; sons, Michael Bannister and Kevin (Allison) Bannister; granddaughters, Kate and Molly Bannister; brothers, Scott (Kathy) Bannister and Jim Bannister; and many other loving family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister-in-law, Judy Bannister.

Memorials in Hobie’s name may be directed to Orchard Place, or the charity of your choice.

Iles Jordan Creek Chapel is managing arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at Ilescares.com.