Joseph P. Hovanec, Sr.

CROSWELL: Joseph P. Hovanec, Sr., age 84, died Sunday June 9, 2013 peacefully at his home. He was born in Beaverdale, PA September 18, 1928, the son of the late Michael and Helen Hovanec. He was the 7th of their 8 children. Joe was a Marine Corp draftee during the Korean War. He received a Bachelors Degree from St. Francis College in Loretto, PA, and a Masters Degree from the University of Pittsburgh. Joe spent 34 years in education; first as a chemistry, physics, and biology teacher, then as an Assistant Principal at Mott High School in Warren, MI. His last 17 years in education was serving as Principal of Croswell-Lexington High School in Croswell, MI. He was a father figure to his students and emphasized the need for higher education and giving 110%, whether in sports, the classroom, or life. He married Audrey Vicic September 13, 1952 in Beaverdale, PA. This past year, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They had 10 children together. Surviving are his children Martha (James) Pierce of Huber Heights, OH, John of Port Huron, James (Nancy Susan) of Croswell, Nancy Tanner of Croswell, Anne (Randy) Craig of Croswell, Audrey (Thomas) Martin of Marysville, Paul of Croswell, and Amy (Jeffrey) Boswell of Orchard Park, NY. Joe was a loving and devoted grandfather to 21 grandchildren: Andrew and Gregory Brown, Jennifer Pierce-Ruff, Matthew, Jason, Mark, and Michael Pierce, Valerie and Joshua Hovanec, Adrianne Tanner-Henderson, Christine Tanner-Weiler, Jonnette Tanner-Garske, Jacob, Joseph, and Lucas Tanner, Danielle and Adam Craig, Alison and Zachary Martin, and Katelyn and Nicholas Boswell. 11 great-grandchildren; Evan and Liam Brown, Grady and Alaina Brown, Lucy and Joseph Ruff, Olivia and Kenzlie Henderson, Deegan Weiler, Elizabeth and Madilyn Garske. Two sisters, and one brother. He was preceded in death by his children Joseph Paul, Jr. and Mary Ann Brown; one brother, and 3 sisters. The most important things to Joe were his faith and family. He left an indelible mark on all those whose lives he touched. For his family, Joe will live on in the many memories and lessons learned. Visitation will be held from 2 to 9 PM Friday at the Pomeroy Funeral Home, Croswell. Funeral and burial will be private. www.pomeroyfuneralhomes.com

Joseph P. Hovanec, Sr.

September 18, 1928 - June 9, 2013