Joshua Paul Kobdish

Joshua Paul Kobdish was born January 29, 1976 in Bakersfield, California and passed away suddenly on January 26, 2021.


Growing up, Joshua was a star athlete. He graduated from North High and attended Fresno State University on a full football scholarship. Following college, he played pro football and worked in sports rehab.


He was a patient encourager, a peacemaker, and a gentle man with a huge heart who always saw the best in people. Josh was a people person, a friend to everyone, the big guy everyone liked and loved. He loved family-style dinners at Narducci’s and being an uncle, rafting in Kern River with nieces Laura, Leona, and nephew Tom. He was that person dogs and children clamored to be around.



He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Kobdish, stepmother, Ann Kobdish and stepbrother Beau. Josh cared for both his father and stepmother in their later days. Joshua is survived by his mother Beth Hawkes, stepfather Bob Hawkes, beloved sisters Jessica, Karen, stepsister Cecily, and a host of other family and friends, including Uncle Albert and Josh's former wife Molly. He is deeply missed.


Please contact Beth at hawkesbe@gmail.com or Jessica kobdish@yahoo.com for information about the Zoom memorial service to be held in February.