Thomas D. Hovey Sr.

Thomas D. Hovey Sr. age 86 of Sand Lake passed away Friday, July 8, 2016 at his home. Tom was born June 22, 1930 in Grand Rapids. Surviving are his wife, Linda (Kort) Hovey; children, Mary & Tom Vaugh, Tom Hovey Jr., Kim & Karen Hovey, Pam & Al Pike, John Rasmussen, Lisa & Bill Groot; 13 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild; sister, Marilyn Demerest; sisters-in-law, Jackie Kort, Judy Doxey and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Marcia Hovey; brother, Lee F. Hovey Jr.; his parents, Lee & Petronella Hovey and in-laws, Pete and Phyllis Kort. Early on in life Tom’s interests revolved around racing. His first experience was at Bigelow Field in 1948 and a long career ensued in open wheeled racing. He was recognized as a fierce dirt track competitor at many Midwest tracks. He was an avid hunter with trips to Montana, Iowa, Canada and the Upper Peninsula. As a fisherman he loved the water. In the last ten years of his life he was happiest on their houseboat, “The Hardy Hilton” surrounded by friends and family telling funny stories which he did best. Tom worked many years as a truck driver and equipment operator, starting at Bishop Motor Freight with his dad and brother. Then he owned his own truck and worked for Reith Riley. He also owned Fun Spot Bowling Alley in Irons, MI and went to Central Alaska in 1980 where he gold mined and repaired heavy equipment. In 1992 Tom retired from Grand Valley Redi-Mix/Ottawa Aggregates. He then went back to work hauling dies for General Die until 1999. The family wishes to thank Spectrum Health Palliative and Hospice Care. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 24 at 4 pm at the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club, 7463 18 Mile Road, Cedar Springs. Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike, Cedar Springs, MI.