Obituary of Sylvester F. Hoard

Sylvester F. "Joe" Hoard, died Saturday, May 3, 2014, at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City following a short illness. He was reunited in death with his beloved wife, Florence who preceded him in death five years ago. Joe had recently celebrated his 95th birthday with many of his family members in attendance. Joe Hoard was born in Watertown, WI on March 8, 1919, to Steve and Adeline Hoard. He grew up in Fond du Lac, WI, working in CC camps and serving in the US Navy during World War II. Dad met his wife, Florence, while he was staying at her Aunt Lydia's Tavernel in Oronoco, MN in the 1940's. They were united in marriage on June 1, 1951. They moved to Hills, IA in the mid 1950's where they raised their four children. Dad had been Mom's caregiver during her many years of struggle with cancer and Parkinson's disease. He has missed her greatly since her passing. As an adult Joe was employed as a salesperson for several companies. With the help of his wife and children, Dad built many homes in the Hills and Riverside communities. He and Florence along with sons John (Cheryl) and Joe (Kathy) operated Hills Organic Christmas Trees on their property for many years. He loved animals and daily looked forward to feeding his "bunny rabbits" on the back porch, who came when he called them. He was a compassionate and generous man, who often purchased fans for the needy during the hot summer months and gave them to the Crisis Center for distribution. Each Christmas he put bags of candy in a large box inside the Hills Post Office. Growing up poor during the Depression, he thought children should have treats especially during the Christmas season. Dad loved his home and land in the country. In his 90's he loved to drive through the woods, first in his gaiter and later in his van over the paths his son John lovingly cleared of trees and brush. In addition to his wife, Dad was preceded in death by his youngest son, Jim; his parents and siblings; Dorothy Sinnett, Marie Blasic, Steve Hoard and Harold Hoard. Joe is survived by his children Judy Hoard (Beth) of Madison, WI, Joe Hoard (Kathy) of Sutton, AK, John Hoard (Cheryl) of Hills and Raymond McNurlan of Stoughton, WI, five grandchildren, Titan Hoard (Lisa), Andrea Howe (Randy), Brent Hoard, Jason Hoard (Erin) and Josh Hoard (Kaily) and twelve great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 7th at the Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery. Memorials in Sylvester's name can be made to the Crisis Center or the Iowa City Library through the ICPL Friends Foundation.