Phillip J. Hovey

Phillip J. Hovey Phillip John Hovey, 93, longtime Byron resident passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 2, 2013 at Cottagewood Senior Communities, formerly Sunrise Cottages, where he had resided the past seven years. Born August 29, 1919 in Hayfield to Kinney & Alma (Morstad) Hovey.He graduated from Hayfield High School in 1939. He married the love of his life, Irene Distad, on August 12, 1940 in Hayfield and she preceded him in death on March 2, 2011.He retired from Rochester Public School System in the early 1980's after working 22 years in maintenance and various capacities in both the Rochester and Byron School System.He also was a carrier for the Rochester Post Bulletin for 20 years.He was a hardworking, dedicated husband of 71 years, a wonderful father, and great family man who loved life, enjoyed the simple pleasures of life just relaxing, enjoying nature, his family pets, reading the daily newspaper and listening to music.He was a sports enthusiast always enjoying the Twins and Vikings, and his contagious smile touched many lives throughout his 93 years.He was a longtime member of Christ Lutheran Church when his health allowed him to attend. Surviving are his four children, Betty Ramthun (Daniel) of Goodhue, Bonnie Christenson (Maynard) of Rochester, Kenneth Hovey (Linda Thomas) of Byron, and Kevin Hovey (Jane Keehn) of Rochester.8 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren, and two sisters, Phyllis Ruzek and Kathryn Buske (Don) both of Rochester.He was preceded in death by his wife, and an infant daughter. Funeral services will be held 1 PM Tuesday May 7, 2013 at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Chapel with visitation beginning at 11:30 AM.Following a luncheon, burial will take place at the Fairview Cemetery in Hayfield.The family wishes to thank the staff of Cottagewood Senior Communities (formerly Sunrise Cottages) for their loving care given to him the past seven years, and Seasons Hospice who assisted in his final days. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com