William P. Hovanec

William P. “Willie” Hovanec, 86, formerly of Warren, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 3, 2018 at Atria Senior Living in Springboro, Ohio.  He was born November 9, 1931 in Warren, the son of George and Viola (Rajcan) Hovanec.

After graduating from Warren G. Harding High School, Willie served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.  He later graduated from the University of Tampa, where he was a defensive end on the football team and also a Golden Gloves boxing champion.

Willie owned a grocery store with his family.  He and Verna then moved to Florida, where he owned a bar/restaurant and a doughnut shop, before moving back to Ohio,  and retired from General Motors-Lordstown after 30 years of employment. 

A member of Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Warren, Willie enjoyed golf, bowling, and watching sports on television.  He was also a self-taught artist. 

Fond memories of Willie live on with his loving wife of 60 years, Verna (Sharak) Hovanec, whom he married May 31, 1958; three children: Eric (Renee) Hovanec of Senoia, Ga., Davina (Nicki) Hovanec of Enterprise, Fla., and Laura (Brian) Stamcoff of Springboro; three grandchildren: Lex, Lauren, and Anthony; and many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Preceding him in death are his parents, one sister, and four brothers.

Services are 3:00 pm Saturday, October 20, 2018 at Staton-Borowski Funeral Home.  Friends may call 2:00 to 3:00 pm Saturday at the funeral home.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.