User:Jypian/Uncle Bob
Robert Hoobler | |
|---|---|
 Hoobler in 2009 | |
| Born | Robert Hoobler March 12, 1950 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Died | July 15, 2022 (aged 72) New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Other names | Uncle Bob |
| Occupation | Police officer |
| Known for | Saving Lil Wayne's life |
Robert Edward Hoobler (November 16, 1956 – July 22, 2022), also professionally known as Uncle Bob, was a former police officer in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is widely recognized for saving the life of rapper Lil Wayne after a suicide attempt in 1994, when Lil Wayne was 12 years old. Hoobler was awarded a gold life-saving pin for his actions and was mentioned in VH1's documentary series Behind the Music (2009). Hoobler remarked of Lil Wayne, after viewing the documentary, "I'm proud of him. He made something of himself."
Early Life
[edit]Hoobler was born November 16, 1956, in New Orleans, Louisiana.[1][2] Hoobler served as a Senior Airman in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War era.[1]
Career
[edit]1970s–1994: U.S. Air Force and New Orleans Police Department, and Lil Wayne Rescue
[edit]Hoobler served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War era[1] and later joined the New Orleans Police Department, where he became known for saving Lil Wayne’s life in 1994.[3]
2009–2012: Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office and Legal Issues
[edit]After retiring from the NOPD, Hoobler joined the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office in 2009. However, in 2012, he faced charges of malfeasance in office due to an incident involving the use of a stun gun during an arrest. He accepted a plea deal, received probation, and was later pardoned for the incident.[4]
2012–2022: Retirement, Health Struggles, and Passing
[edit]Following his departure from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Hoobler retired from law enforcement. In his later years, he faced major health challenges, including complications from a car accident and diabetes, which led to the amputation of both legs, this would unfortunately led up to his passing.[5][6]
Relationship with Lil Wayne
[edit]Years later, Lil Wayne publicly shared the story of Hoobler’s heroism and expressed his deep gratitude. In interviews and on social media, Lil Wayne referred to Hoobler as "Uncle Bob" and acknowledged him as a pivotal figure in his life. In a 2018 interview, Lil Wayne recounted Hoobler’s refusal to leave his side until doctors confirmed he would survive.
Lil Wayne also offered Hoobler financial assistance as a token of appreciation, although Hoobler reportedly declined the offer, citing his belief that he simply did what was right.
Death
[edit]Robert Hoobler passed away on July 15, 2022, at the age of 72. His death was attributed to complications related to diabetes, which had led to the amputation of both of his legs. Upon learning of Hoobler’s passing, Lil Wayne paid tribute to him on social media, writing: "Everything happens for a reason. I was dying when I met u at this very spot. U refused to let me die. RIP Uncle Bob."
Legacy
[edit]The story of Robert Hoobler and Lil Wayne has resonated with fans and the general public, highlighting themes of compassion, second chances, and the transformative impact of selfless actions. Hoobler's legacy lives on through Lil Wayne's music and public acknowledgment of the officer's life-saving intervention.
See Also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c "ROBERT EDWARD HOOBLER's Memorial". www.vlm.cem.va.gov. Retrieved January 2, 2025.
- ^ Shakhnazarova, Nika (July 26, 2022). "Lil Wayne mourns death of NOLA cop Robert 'Uncle Bob' Hoobler who saved his life as child". Retrieved January 2, 2025.
- ^ "Lil Wayne Offered to Financially Take Care of Ex-Cop Who Saved His Life". TMZ. August 17, 2021. Retrieved January 2, 2025.
- ^ Fofana, Oumou. "New Orleans police officer who saved Lil Wayne's life as a kid dies". REVOLT. Retrieved January 2, 2025.
- ^ "New Orleans officer who saved rapper Lil Wayne's life dies at 65". Police1. July 25, 2022. Retrieved January 2, 2025.
- ^ Ainsley, Helen. "Lil Wayne pays tribute to late police officer who 'refused to let me die' after suicide attempt". The Independent. Retrieved January 2, 2025.