Michael Peter Hoover

Michael Peter Hoover, 84, of Harding, died Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, in the intensive care unit in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Twp.

He joins Marie, his wife of 61 years, in eternal peace. They were taken to Geisinger together by ambulance Christmas Day, where they said their goodbyes before later succumbing to COVID-19. Marie passed away New Year's Eve and was waiting for her beloved Mike.

Born in Duryea, he was the son of the late Michael and Alice Namatka Hoover. He was a graduate of Duryea High School, Class of 1955.

He is survived by a daughter, Carole Marie Tompkins, Pittston; a son, Michael Hoover, Hanover; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was extremely close with daughter, Carole; and his grandson, Donnie and his wife, Amanda, who provided tremendous support in helping him care for his wife, Marie, who had debilitating Alzheimer's for over a decade.

He is survived by sisters, Veronica Kobal, Ransom; and Anna Szewcyk, Dayton, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his brother, Joe; and sister, Mary.

Michael retired after more than 30 years as a manager at the Kmart, Edwardsville. Before that, he worked in the automotive parts industry, including A&A Automotive, Exeter.

He was a member of St. James Episcopal Church, Pittston, and later Trinity Episcopal Church, West Pittston, where he was a member of the vestry.

Stoic and larger than life, he had a big heart, cared deeply and showed enormous love and great pride in his family. He enjoyed gardening, taking walks, searching for bargains and filling his basement with aluminum cans to later exchange for cash when the price was right. He said he wasn't cheap, just thrifty.

The family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association or a favorite charity, or to spend some meaningful time with a loved one.

As per his wishes, he will be cremated and there will be no viewing.

Arrangements are from Ruane & Mudlock Funeral Home Inc., Pittston, and condolences can be made at www.ruaneandmudlock.com.