Joann Mildred Hoover

Joann Mildred Hoover, 77, of Griffith, IN, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2022, in Carmel, IN, with her family at her side.  She was born in Hammond, IN, on March 26, 1945, to the late Frank and Grace (Elkins) Gretz.  Joann graduated from Hammond Tech High School in 1963.   She worked as an administrative assistant at NIPSCO for 32 years, retiring in 2003.   Joann was a member of United Methodist Church of Griffith, IN.

Joann was a very involved mother having three children who were involved in multiple sports and organizations.  She was a dedicated fan of numerous football, baseball, basketball, soccer and dance team events with her children and grandchildren.  She was always the parent in the stands at both home and away games despite the temperature and conditions.  Joann balanced work and her family for many years, but never sacrificed the opportunity to bring her children a milkshake or home video when they were sick. She and her husband Bill were travelers of the world visiting numerous countries and islands with their favorite friends and family.  She and “The Griswolds” created wonderful memories including camping trips, cruises and after-game gatherings.  She was a frequent visitor of the gambling boats on Lake Michigan and loved playing video poker.  She was an avid cat lover and loved having Dippity, Buffy and Charlie over the years.  She was a diehard White Sox Fan.  One of her favorite weekends of the year was our annual family reunion at Potato Creek Campground.

She is preceded in death by her parents, mentioned above; along with her brothers, Donald Gretz and Dale Gretz.

Joann is survived by her husband of 52 years, William Hoover; children Scott (Crystal), Ryan (Amy), and Shellie; dear family friends, Johnny Vargo and Sam Koetter; grandchildren, Alex, Jake and Zach Hoover, Macy, Tyler and Tatum Koetter, and Molly and Ben Hoover; and her best friend and older sister, Carol (Gretz) Smith, who currently resides in South Bend; along with multiple nieces, nephews and cousins, with whom she was fortunate to have as a part of her life.

There will be a celebration of life memorial on Thursday, September 29th from 11-2 (CST) at Theo’s Restaurant in Highland, Indiana (9144 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 46322), with gathering starting at 11:00. A light lunch buffet will be served.

Cremation Arrangements provided by Legacy Cremation & Funeral Services – Lawrence.