Dennis Arthur Hoben, Milford Resident and Amateur Radio Enthusiast, Dies at 86

Hoben spent decades working as a food microbiologist before retiring in 1996.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:28pm

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A softly blurred, out-of-focus photograph in warm, hazy tones depicting a cozy living room scene with a vintage radio, a cup of tea, and a pair of reading glasses, conveying a sense of nostalgia and the comforts of a life well-lived.

The passing of Dennis Hoben, a longtime Milford resident and amateur radio enthusiast, reflects the enduring appeal of niche hobbies and the value of curiosity and generosity in the face of life's challenges.Camden Today

Dennis Arthur Hoben, a longtime Milford, Connecticut resident and amateur radio enthusiast, passed away on April 8, 2026 at the age of 86. Hoben had a distinguished career as a food microbiologist, working for companies like Campbell's Soup and Pepperidge Farm, before retiring in 1996.

Why it matters

Hoben's passing marks the end of an era for the Milford community, where he was an active member of the local amateur radio club and known for his generosity and curiosity about the world around him. His life story reflects the changing landscape of American industry and the enduring appeal of niche hobbies like amateur radio.

The details

After graduating from Temple University, Hoben began his career as a food microbiologist with Campbell's Soup in New Jersey. He later continued his work in the field at Pepperidge Farm in Norwalk, Connecticut, traveling across the country before retiring in 1996. Outside of his professional life, Hoben was deeply passionate about amateur radio, proudly participating in the Milford Amateur Radio Club and renewing his amateur radio license in his later years. He was also an avid golfer who defied expectations, even learning to walk again at age 80 after being told he wouldn't be able to.

Hoben passed away on April 8, 2026 at Bridgeport Hospital.
Hoben was born on December 3, 1939 in Audubon, New Jersey.
Hoben lived in Milford, Connecticut since 1981 before recently moving to Fairfield.

The players