Geoffrey Hoover

Geoff Hoover was born in Akron, Ohio on August 8, 1948. As a young boy, Geoff enjoyed playing Little League baseball and going to the farm and riding horses. He was especially fond of his Grandpa and Grandma Hoover. Geoff stayed with his grandparents in the summertime and had many fond memories of spending special time with his grandma! At age 9, Geoff became a big brother and was excited to welcome his little brother Gordon into the family. Geoff adored his little brother and enjoyed spending time with him. Geoff graduated from Mona Shores High School in Muskegon, Michigan in June 1966 and attended Western Michigan University where he met his soulmate Gail. They married October 11, 1968 and resided in Kalamazoo, Michigan where Geoff continued his studies as an English major at Western Michigan. Geoff and Gail welcomed their first child, daughter Jennifer the next year. Two years later, Geoff was drafted to serve in Vietnam in March of 1971 in the heat of the Vietnam War. Leaving for Vietnam was an incredible sacrifice for Geoff as he left behind his pregnant wife and young daughter. His son Jessi was born during his assignment in Vietnam. Geoff proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Military Policeman and received an honorable discharge in April of 1972. Upon returning to the civilian life, Geoff resumed his job at Conrail as a Conductor where he worked for many years.

Geoff was an outdoorsman, especially loved the mountains, enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader. One of his favorite vacation spots was Mt. Pisgah, North Carolina. Geoff loved driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. Gordon and Wendy Hoover graciously shared their mountain cabin at Cherokee Mountain in Nantahala, NC where Geoff and Gail enjoyed staying. Geoff also enjoyed Blue Grass music and especially enjoyed attending the annual Blue Grass festival at The Ozark Folk Center in Mountainview, Arkansas. Many vacations were enjoyed to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Geoff was especially fond of the city of Marquette and Presque Isle Park. One of his favorite restaurants was Schloegel’s Bay View Restaurant in Menominee, Michigan.

Geoff attended Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Portage, Michigan with his wife Gail. Geoff really enjoyed the Sunday morning brunches after church and the social time with friends.

Geoff {Papa/Grandpa} was extremely proud of his three grandchildren, Morgan, Mike and Clarrisa. He enjoyed their visits; especially at the Holidays. Papa/Grandpa attended dance recitals, baseball games, gymnastics and Grandparents Day at school. Geoff also loved animals; especially dogs. A white Boxer named Abigail left forever paw prints on his heart.

Geoff was an intelligent and well liked man. He made friends easily and enjoyed talking about many diverse subjects. Geoff was well versed and known for his excellent debate skills. On the lighter side, Geoff liked to play the lottery and joked that the only time that he won was when his number was picked in the draft for Vietnam. He had a kind heart and made monthly donations to the church for the local food bank because he felt that no one should be hungry.

Geoff will be dearly loved and missed by his family.

Geoff Hoover, age 68, of Portage went to be with the Lord on October 15, 2016. Geoff was born on August 8, 1948 to Charles and Ilene (Mintz) Hoover. Visit with his family and friends and view his life story film on Wednesday, Oct. 19 from 4:00 to 7:00 at the Life Story Funeral Home, Portage; 5975 Lovers Lane (269 344-5600). A funeral service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 20 at 11:00 at the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church; 1747 W Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49024. Geoff’s family includes his loving wife of 48 years, Gail; his children: Jennifer Oskins, Jessi (Nikki) Hoover; his brother Gordon (Wendy) Hoover; 3 grandchildren: Morgan, Mike and Clarrisa. He was preceded in death by his parents. Geoff served his country proudly in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. Please visit Geoff’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can read his life story, archive a memory or photo and sign his memory book online. Memorial donations can be made to the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church or Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes.