HOOVER, James R. (Jim)

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ - Published Tuesday, June 12, 2012 - James R. “Jim” Hoover passed away June 8, 2012 at the age of 88. He left us peacefully with his loving family at his side. Jim was born July 9, 1923, in Omaha, Neb., to William and Judith Hoover. Jim served in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, enlisting on Feb. 5, 1943, and was honorably discharged Nov. 24, 1945. In 1942, Jim married the love of his life, Mary “Jo” Donald. Together they raised three children, Jim, Tom and Joyce. Jim worked for the Metropolitan Utilities District in Omaha and retired in 1985. In 1993, Jim and Jo relocated to Lake Havasu City. Jim was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1951 and fought the disease bravely until the very end. He was determined to not let it get the best of him. Jim loved his Diamondbacks, model cars and slot machines. A slot machine sat in his room and he played it daily. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jo; today, June 13, would have marked their 70th anniversary; sons, Jim (Cathy) Hoover, of Lake Havasu City, and Tom (Linda) Hoover, of Watkinsville, Ga.; daughter, Joyce (Mike) Riley, of Lake Havasu City; sister, Betty; brother, Bud; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his brother, Dave. We take great comfort in the fact that you’re in a place where you can walk, run and be at peace. A memorial service will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home. Dr. David Bybee, of Community Presbyterian Church, will offer words of comfort. VFW Post 9401 and American Legion Post 81 will render military Honors. Thoughts and condolences may be submitted to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were placed under the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory.