JOSEPH HOVORKA

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JOSEPH HOVORKA It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Joe Hovorka, beloved husband of the recent deceased wife, Lillian, wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather and uncle. Joe was predeceased by his wife Lillian of 72 years; father and mother, Anton and Maria; two brothers, Tony and Frank; and sister Annie; one brother-in-law Andrew Szeliga; three sisters-in-law, Rosie, Margaret and Mary; and one son-in-law Wayne Banker. Remaining to forever cherish his memory are five children, Marvin (Doris) Hovorka, Muriel Banker, Linda (Ray) Smith, Terry Hovorka, Brian Hovorka, grandchildren and spouses, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many many friends. Joe was born on March 14, 1914, in Mahnomen, Minnesota. He immigrated to Whitemouth Lake, Manitoba with his family at the age of two and lived there for the balance of his life working in the wood business from a very young age due to a premature death of his father. At the age of nine, he and his brother Tony, age 11, cut railroad ties for a living. Joe married Lillian Schindler on December 31, 1937, and continued logging, mixed farming and some commercial fishing. In late life after he sold his wood business he went back into grain farming for the remainder of his life. He enjoyed all his various endeavours throughout his life, working ceaselessly. During his years as pulpwood lumber producer he provided employment for many young men in the Whitemouth Lake area and contributed much to the community in the development of roads and services. Joe did find time to enjoy life away from work with his wife, dancing and travelling. He loved having his friends and family visit and occasionally found time to hunt and go fishing. His devotion to his family was marked in many ways by gentle guidance. He believed in being productive by living a simple life, keeping close family ties and passing on a legacy for his life's work. He died peacefully with all his children at his side at the age of 96 on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at the Altru Roseau Hospital. Funeral services will be held Friday, February 18, 2011 at the Vassar Catholic Church. Family viewing is from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Public viewing is from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Church service will be at 1:30 p.m. followed by lunch and celebration of his life at the Vassar Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: East Borderland Community Housing, P.O. Box 207, Sprague, MB R0A 1Z0. Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 or 1-888-454-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 12, 2011