William "Bill" D. Hovarter, 90, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026. He was born on August 12, 1935, in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Floyd and Dorothy Hovarter.
He was one of seven children and is survived by his beloved sister, Ruthie Gilbreath. A devoted family man. Bill leaves behind his children, Victor Hovarter, Elizabeth Baumgartner, and Carlene Lewton. He was also blessed with six grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and twelve great-great grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy.
Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1953-1957. With his characteristic sense of humor, he often joked that he was the only sailor who served in the Navy without ever spending a day on a ship, having been assigned as a lifeguard.
Following his military service, Bill built a career as a truck driver and retired as a proud member of the Teamsters Union, with Consolidated Freightways serving as his final employer.
Bill was never one to sit still. He loved building and fixing things, served for many years as an Assistant Scoutmaster, and was constant presence at his children's sporting events and band performances. His family could always count on him to lend a hand, offer practical advice, or tackle the next project.
After retirement, Bill and his wife, Henrietta, moved to Silver City, New Mexico, where they built a home on property they had purchased years earlier. Retirement only expanded his opportunities to serve others. He volunteered as a firefighter with the Tyrone and White Signal Fire Departments, drove the DAV transportation van for fellow veterans, and dedicated countless hours to Habitat for Humanity, helping build homes and volunteering at the Re-Store.
Bill believed in making the world a little better wherever he went. Whether he was helping a neighbor or assisting a stranger, picking up litter while camping or asking park rangers if they needed anything done, he was always looking for ways to serve. He enjoyed attending meetings of the local Westerners Club, birdwatching, hiking, camping, and spending time outdoors he loved so much.
Bill will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous heart, willingness to help others, and quiet acts of service that touched countless lives. He lived a life defined by kindness, humility, and dedication to family and friends, community, and country.
Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the legacy he leaves behind and in the many lives made better because Bill was a part of them.
Fair winds and following seas, Bill. Your work here is done, and your legacy lives on in all who knew and loved you.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness and service in Bill's memory reflecting the way he lived his life every day. Also, donations can be made to the Tyrone/White Signal Fire Departments, in Bill's name.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral and Crematory Chapels. "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777.
