Charles John Hoey, age 87 of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully, Monday, December 7, 2020. He was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Jean Heinzelman; father, Clarence Hoey. Charles is survived by the mother of his children, Kathrene Hoey; children, Chantal (Josh) Hoey-Sanders, Nicole Hoey, Michelle (Jason) Hoey-Heath; grandchildren, Alexander & Hildi Sanders, Charles & Andrew Heath; special friends, Carl Morin, Clark Rouse, and Judy Hoey. Charlie was born and raised in East Grand Rapids, MI. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He played football and baseball for EGR High School and then football for Western Michigan University. After graduating from WMU, he worked in sales. Later, Charlie pursued a career in education where he taught for GRPS for 28 ½ years and was beloved by his students, especially his adult education students. Charlie received his master’s degree from Michigan State University and was an avid Spartan fan. He was past president of TPA, Traveler’s Protective Association. In 2003, he was inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame. Charlie was best known for his love of Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada, speaking French, attending Grand Rapids Griffins hockey games, playing cards at Bernie’s car lot, his love of animals, tooting around town in his convertible, and his larger-than-life personality. He adored his three girls. He will be greatly missed. Charlie’s family is so grateful to all the first responders, nurses, doctors, and therapists who helped him over the years and allowed us more time with our Dad. Services will be held at a later date. Interment Garfield Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Crash’s Landing Animal Shelter, 1545 Diamond Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.
