John Michael "Mike" Hoover

John Michael "Mike" Hoover
March 8, 1955 – May 31, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Michael "Mike" Hoover, who went to be with the Lord on May 31, 2025. Born on March 8, 1955, in Charleston, West Virginia, Mike spent his early years in his beloved West Virginia before settling in Okeechobee, Florida with his family. Mike lived in Okeechobee for 60 years. He was a 1974 graduate of Okeechobee High School, then completed training for his CDL at Armellini and IRSC.
Mike, a gifted musician, played both professionally and for his own pleasure. He had an incredible ability to play any instrument he picked up, without needing sheet music. He enjoyed sharing his love for music through DJ'ing events such as the Okeechobee Blood Round-Up, Senior Services celebrations, Okeechobee Hospice fundraisers, and countless family gatherings. He also loved playing the drums in the Legacy Worship Service at First Baptist Church of Okeechobee.
An avid sports fan, Mike had a special place in his heart for the UCF Knights, Florida Gators, West Virginia Mountaineers, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He cheered for his teams with deep fervor. He also loved learning new things, especially anything related to music and gadgets.
He could often be found enjoying the simple pleasures of sitting by a fire, swimming, riding his bike, or playing/listening to music; finding joy in those moments. A frequent patron of Okeechobee's local restaurants, especially Lakeside Grill & Kahootz, Mike had a true sense of community and enjoyed his time spent with friends and family. His warm presence will be missed in many places around town.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, Roy Hoover; his brother, Robbie Hoover; stepfather, Buddy O'Dell; and his nephew, Adam Homer.
He is survived by his mother, Mary Jo Hoover O'Dell; his sister, "Penny" Hoover Homer; his brothers, Tommy (Lisa) Hoover, and Joey (Dawn) Hoover; and other family members Bruce Homer, Lorraine Hoover, Susie Hoover, and Cindy (Dale) Holt.
Mike leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, Rachel (Ray) Harker, Amy (Andy) Davenport, Joanna (Seth) Hoover, Jenny Hoover, Jeffrey (Mandy) Pinder, Sean (Dana) Murphy, Dustin (Caroline) Hoover, Casey (Jordan) Hoover, Abbey (Ryan) Lucy, Justin (Brittany) Hoover, Kailey (Kyle) Kauffmann, Ian (Charlie) Holt, and Olivia Holt; 21 great nieces and nephews; and one great-great niece.
Mike will be remembered for his love of music, big smile, and deep love for his family.
Visitation will be Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 6 pm until 8 pm at Buxton Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home. Service will be held at 2:30 pm on Friday, June 6, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Okeechobee.
Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com.
All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.