We are sad to announce that Len (Leonard George) Hoover passed away on January 8, 2009 at Kelowna General Hospital. Len was born October 29, 1920 in Armstrong, BC, youngest child of Charles and Maude (Kaiser) Hoover.

He was predeceased by his dear daughter Marnie (1954-1957) and beloved wife Peg (1922-1994).

Len is survived by brother Herb (Frieda) Vernon, sons Alan (Leni) Victoria, Phil (Anne) Kelowna; grandchildren Phil (Jill), Sally (Dan) Victoria, Randeen Vernon, Shannon (Farshad) Vancouver, Michelle (Rafi) Kelowna; great-grandchildren Eli, Joshua, Nate, Ruby, Lily, new baby boy Victoria, Austin Kelowna; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Len served in the British Merchant Navy as a Radio Officer between 1940 and 1942 aboard the S.S. Lyras, Bradburn and Algonquin.

Dad met Mom April 12, 1941 and four days later wrote in his diary "Wow what a gal - sure wish we were staying longer, unless I miss my guess she's fallen like a ton of bricks!"

Between 1942 and 1945 Len served as a wireless telegraph operator in the British Air Ministry. Dad also served in the Home Guard between 1942 and 1944.

In 1946 Len, Peg and boys boarded the S.S. Scythia in Liverpool arriving in Halifax October 31st. The family came across Canada by train and settled in Falkland where Len worked his way up to manager of the Gypsum Mine.

In the mid-fifties Len went to work at Hoover's Sawmill. After the mill was purchased by Lavington Planer Mills, Dad worked there until his retirement in 1985.

Len was active in the Vernon Power Squadron including teaching celestial navigation.

He was a life-long member of the amateur radio fraternity earning his "ham license" in 1935. In 1996 Len was awarded a lifetime membership in the North Okanagan Radio Amateur Club. Dad's call sign was VE7PE.

Published in the Vernon Morning Star