'She was just part of the heart and soul of this organization'
EUGENE, Ore. - Co-workers of a woman killed in a car crash Saturday called her "the heart and soul" of the operation.
Karlie Hobson, 32, was director of speech at the Eugene Hearing and Speech Center.
She was headed to visit a friend Saturday afternoon when her car veered into oncoming traffic, killing her on impact.
"It's a huge loss," said co-worker Doris Towery. "She was just part of the heart and soul of this organization and the mission and the work that we do. Karlie lived it and exemplified it in every aspect of her life."
Hobson "always had a smile, always stopped to make sure that you were feeling OK, and patients adored her," Towery said. "She cared deeply for them and really cared about helping people to be successful."
The day before she died, Hobson went up to see her husband, Jeremy, who was helping to fight the forest fires near Oakridge to celebrate their five-year anniversary.
Hobson had been with the center for 6 years. She was a University of Oregon graduate.
"She brought that joy and passion and warmth to every aspect of her life," Towery said. "This is not just a huge empty hole that is left for our organization, but I think for our community too."
A funeral will likely be held in Hobson's home state of Minnesota. There are plans to hold a celebration of life in Eugene. No date has been set yet.
Karlie u will be greatly missed. You were an awesome speech therapist and my family greatly appreciates all you did for my son for the three years he came to see you every week. My heart is with your family
My heart goes out to Karlie's family. I met her a few years ago when my grandson went to EH&S....Very sweet person.
Much love to everyone involved. So very sad.
My sons and I saw Karlie just last week when my older son had speech at EH&S. She was always there with a quick smile and kind word. We will miss her.Â
Very sad for this young woman to have this happen to and probably even worse for her spouse who is helping people also. All roads are dangerous and your attention must be focused on it.
There have been so many accidents like this one lately. Â Being on the road is dangerous. Sad to see such a beautiful and productive young woman have an accident like this.Â
Why did she cross the center line. It is important to know. The information could save a life. What a lovely young lady, it is just a shame for things like this to happen. Best to her family.