John D Hovarter

John Dale Hovarter 90 years old of Corunna, IN passed away surrounded by family on March 22,2026.

He was born May 5, 1935 to the late Harry and Pauline Hovarter.

He graduated from Garrett High School in 1953 where he played football. He went on to graduate from Tri-State University (Trine University) with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1955.

He married Bonnie Engelking on June 6, 1959 they had two daughters, sadly Bonnie passed in 1985. They were married for 26 years. He then married Barbara Hovarter April 1, 1995 they were married for 25 years before her passing in 2020.

He worked for International Harvester as a general foreman until its closure in 1983. He then went on to work for Sheller Global as a foreman until his retirement. He was also a full-time crop farmer before and after retirement, retiring at 86 years old.

He was a member of the Cedar Creek Tractor Club, Farm Power Club and Dekalb’s County Horseman’s Association. He was a member of the election board for Corunna, IN. He was the treasurer and member of Zion 16 Lutheran Church upon its closure he then became a member of Maple Grove United Methodist Church.

One thing he was known for is “If John couldn’t fix it you might as well pitch it.” He was a wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, they were very important to him. He also loved water skiing. He was an avid supporter of Dekalb High School. Never missed a football game or basketball game. His favorite hobbies were working on old farming equipment, grandfather clocks and cuckoo clocks.

He is survived by is daughter Lynnette (Todd) Duval of Auburn, IN. Grandchildren Trevor Gebert, Boni (Chad) Crider of Fort Wayne, IN, Jimmy (Zoe) Duval of Auburn, IN and Makayla Duval of Auburn, IN. Brother-in-law Jim Stahl of Kendallville, IN. Great grandchildren Kora Gebert, Johnathan Gebert, Cole Gebert, Odin Duval, and Ivy Duval. As well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wives Bonnie Engelking and Barbara Hovarter. Sister Carolyn Stahl and Daughter Shari Gebert.

He will be greatly missed.

Services will be 11 AM Monday, March 30, 2026 at Feller and Clark Funeral Home. 1860 Center Street, Auburn, IN 46706 with burial to follow the service in Corunna Cemetery, Corunna. Calling is Sunday from 2 to 6 PM at the funeral home. Memorials can be given in memory of John to Cedar Creek Tractor Club or Horseman’s Association or Maple Grove United Methodist Church. To send condolences visit www.fellerandclark.com.

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