Jean L. Hovencamp

Jean L. Hovencamp of 5438 Podunk Rd., Trumansburg, passed away at Cayuga Medical Center while surrounded by family on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 at the age of 84.

Born on December 28, 1923, Jean was the daughter of Walter McFall, Sr. and Pearl J. Palmer McFall. She graduated from the Trumansburg High School in 1941.

Jean's focal point in life was her family, and while the children were young all of her energy was devoted to their well-being. It was only when they were older that she accepted a position at Ithaca College. When the grandchildren came along Jean was in shear delight and the boisterous family gatherings became even more charged and meaningful for her. She was known for dancing, never seeming to tire. This enthusiasm was also funneled into her love of gardening, canning and keeping her lawn impeccable. Even though Jean never drove a car, she handled the riding lawn mower with ease. In recent years, despite not being able to eat, Jean loved baking and sharing these treats with others, and she never missed an opportunity to go shopping or spend time with her close friends. She also enjoyed the many friendships established through her lifetime membership in the Arthur E. Bouton American Legion Post #770 Auxiliary.

In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband Russell on May 13, 1999. She is survived by two daughters, Rita (Roger) Swartwood of Burdett and Marsha (Bud) Georgia of Trumansburg; two sons, Stephen (Marian) Hovencamp of Trumansburg and Leslie (Catherine) Hovencamp of Interlaken; eleven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two brothers, Walter (Anita) McFall of Trumansburg and Robert (Olympia) McFall of Danby; two sisters, Mary Woodin of Willseyville and Esther Kouf of Mifflinburg, PA; many nieces, nephews, and friends and her cat Corky.

No public calling hours have been scheduled.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Jacksonville Community United Methodist Church at 1:00 pm on Monday, September 22, 2008 with the Rev. Nelson Reppert officiating. Prayers of Committal will follow at Grove Cemetery.

A reception at the Trumansburg American Legion Post #770 will follow the Prayers of Committal.

The family asks those considering a contribution in Jean's memory to kindly consider the Trumansburg Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 418, Trumansburg, NY 14886 or the Trumansburg American Legion Post #770, P.O. Box 456, Trumansburg, NY 14886.