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Michael Hovancik Obituary
Endwell - Michael J. Hovancik, 90, of Endwell, (formerly Johnson City), devoted husband, loving father, faithful friend and devout catholic, passed away November 18, 2020.
Born and raised in Binghamton's First Ward, Mike was filled with the love of family, faith, and a very strong work ethic. Mike married the love of his life, Marion Ward, and they celebrated 61 years of marriage, before her passing in 2013.
Mike was employed and managed Belknap Lumber for many years. His work family was very important to him, he was proud to be awarded "Lumberman of the Year".
Mike was a member of Church of the Holy Trinity for all of his life. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus and served as a board member to the Binghamton-Johnson City Joint sewage plant. His pastimes included trout fishing, traveling with family and his catholic faith.
He is predeceased by his parents, Michael and Mary, brother Thomas, sister Margaret, wife Marion, daughter Susan. Survived by daughters Theresa Blabac (Jim Ryder), Donna Marusich (Steve), his favorite, Carolyn Hatala (Jeff) and son Michael. Grandchildren, Eric (Elissa), Jennifer, Lauren (Sam), Michael, Steven, Adam and Benjamin. Great grandchildren, Alex, Addison and Annabelle.
The family extends special heartfelt thanks to the aides, nurses and staff on the skilled nursing floor at Good Shepherd Village. You helped us stay in contact with our father through FaceTime and numerous phone calls during this lockdown period.
There will be a private funeral mass at Church of the Holy Trinity, 346 Prospect Street, Binghamton, NY, 13905, on Monday, November 23, 2020, at 9:00 am. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation, in Mike's memory, to the Church of the Holy Trinity.
Mike was a man of integrity, loved by all, a gentle giant and a champion of family; he would do anything for anyone. Well done, good and faithful servant. Let the heavenly party begin!
Arrangements are by the JF Rice Funeral Home 150 Main Street Johnson City New York.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Hovancik
Sponsored by the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin.
Molly Willis
December 7, 2020
We were blessed to have gotten to know Mike and his devoted girls while he was at GSVE. He loved his family so much - we saw it each time we helped with FaceTime calls. You all are in our prayers through this very difficult time. May the Lord hold you close.
Julie Michalak
November 24, 2020
I'm very sorry for the loss of your Dad. You are in my thoughts.
Mark
November 23, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with the Hovancik family with the lost of their beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather.
His memory will be everlasting and his spirit never forgotten. I will always cherish my time and his friendship.
Mark
November 23, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with the Hovancik family with the lost of their beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather.
His memory will be everlasting and his spirit never forgotten. I will always cherish my time and his friendship.
Frank Frear
November 23, 2020
My father Frank Frear Sr often spoke of Mike and all the guidance and help he gave at Belknaps. RIP
GEORGE KOLBA JR.
November 23, 2020
One of the nicest man i ever known. May he rest in peace.
Mary Matthews an Dave Lindsey
November 22, 2020
We had the pleasure of meeting Big Mike through our good friend Young Mike. He even came out in his wheelchair when we were building our house to help us build cellar stairs. He was happy to share his knowledge and experience. Our love goes to out the family.
Ann Marie Miner
November 22, 2020
To the Hovancik family
I am so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. He was one of the best, very likeable person. May God give you strength & comfort in your time of sorrow
jerry h tokos
November 22, 2020
Our prayers are with you.
Dana Gregory
November 22, 2020
Mike and your entire family. I'm so sorry for your loss. I never knew your dad but felt like I did from all the great stories that young Mike related to me. God bless you all in this time of sorrow and know this, he is in a far better place now.
John Yannuzzi
November 21, 2020
Mike,
Thank you and rest in peace, my friend.
Myron Sackett
November 21, 2020
Mike was my manager and a friend at belkna lumber. Love this man a man of integrity and I for one cherished the times I was able to see him
Karen oranchak desmond
November 21, 2020
My condolences to the family mr h was a good man he helped my dad build our home in 1967 God bless
Michele Walburger
November 20, 2020
I am so very sorry for the loss of your father. He was a great man. He will be missed be all who knew him.
John Martin
November 20, 2020
I am very sorry to hear of Mikes passing. My father and I did a lot of business with Belnaps and it was always just a joy to work with Mike on our projects. He was a great and gentile person. He will be missed my a great many people.
November 20, 2020
Theresa, Donna, Carolyn, and Michael,
Your Dad was a wonderful man. One fun memory I have of him as a youth was him teaching us kids how to jump rope at your old yellow house on Zoa. He tied one end of the rope to the rain pipe on the garage and had one of us swing the other end of the rope, as he actually jumped with each of us in turn. What energy he had!
He will never be forgotten, and I'm sure you each have many great memories too. May he now Rest in Peace.
Mary Ann Hrywnak
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