Floyd W. Hoover

Floyd W. Hoover, 87, Gautier, Mississippi, formerly of Goshen, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at his son’s home, surrounded by his loving family.

Floyd was born on May 28, 1938, in Elkhart, Indiana, to George and Kathryn (Schmucker) Hoover. On May 30, 1957, he married the love of his life, Esther Rheinheimer, at his family home with Rev. Wilbur Yoder officiating. Their marriage of nearly 60 years was one of deep commitment and partnership—an example to all who knew them. Esther preceded him in death on March 1, 2017.

Though Floyd only had an 8th-grade education, he was a self-taught and self-made man—mechanically gifted, highly intelligent, and endlessly curious. He remained current with technology and never shied away from learning a new skill if it meant providing for his family or growing his businesses. Whether it was repairing washing machines in his early years or later operating Square Deal Tool and Die, Floyd's work ethic was matched only by his integrity and drive. He was an entrepreneur in the truest sense, but always with people in mind.

He genuinely cared for others, especially those less fortunate. That compassion led him to serve on the board of ECHO, a mission organization devoted to equipping and empowering small-scale farmers in developing countries with the tools and training to become self-sustainable, all while sharing the life-giving grace of God. His faith was central to who he was. He was a founding member of River Oaks Community Church in Goshen and lived out his beliefs in word and deed.

Floyd had a wide array of passions. He held a pilot’s license and enjoyed traveling. He delighted his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with magic tricks, songs played on his self-taught guitar, and his unmistakable laugh. His love for his family was fierce, joyful, and unwavering.

He is survived by his daughter, Connie (Mike) Mahaffa of Goshen; three sons, Rick (Celena) Hoover of Gautier, Mississippi, Steve (Janet) Hoover, and Kirk Hoover, both of Elkhart; 14 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his siblings: Thelma Martin and Ruth Richards of Goshen, Eva (Basil) Borntreger of Lebanon, Oregon, Lois Martin and Marie (Ron) Troyer of Elkhart, and William (Nancy) Hoover of Greer, South Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Esther; a great-granddaughter, Macy Lehman; sisters, Gladys Hoover and Shirley Reichlet; and brothers, John and Melvin Hoover.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to his daughter Connie for the many years of devoted care she gave both Floyd and Esther, and to Gloria Kimsey for the compassionate care she provided in Floyd’s final days.

Visitation will be Friday, August 15, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Clinton Frame Church, 63846 C.R. 35, Goshen. A memorial service will be held at the church on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., followed by a luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Floyd’s honor may be directed to ECHO, 17391 Durrance Rd., North Fort Myers, Florida 33917.