Jim W. Hoke

Jim W. Hoke, 78, of Terre Haute, passed away on Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at Union Hospital. He gave the gift of life as an organ donor. Jim was born on June 13, 1937, in Vigo County, to the late J.T. and Helen E. (Diehl) Hoke. He married Darlene “Dee” Mackey in 1959.

Jim is survived by his wife, Dee Hoke of Terre Haute; son, Tim Hoke and wife Kathy of Indianapolis; daughter, Ericka Smith and husband Greg of Deland, FL; grandchildren, Emily Hoke and Samuel Hoke, both of Indianapolis; brother, Max Hoke and wife Diana of Lafayette; sister, Rayetta Hoke Jett and husband Jack of Flowery Branch, GA; niece Jill Jett Parker and husband Jerome of Buford, GA; nephew, Jonathon Hoke and wife Erin of Lafayette; and sister-in-law, Frelna Crawford and husband Robert of Marion, KS.

Jim owned his own service station and a mobile home park for many years. He operated heavy equipment, also. After retirement, he worked part-time selling tools and auto parts at Sears. He was a member of the First Unitarian Universalist Church, a 50 year Mason and Scottish Rite member, and the past president of the Indiana Manufactured Housing Association.

Jim developed a passion for woodcraft and became quite the artisan. Several of his pieces are on display at the Swope Art Museum. He took his love of woodworking and crafted fine furniture for his family members. Fondly known as the “Rocking Chair Man,” anyone fortunate enough to have a piece of Jim’s art will always cherish his memory.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. on Friday, May 20 at Mattox-Wood Funeral Home. Services will be held at 4 p.m., at the funeral home with Rev. Doddie Stone officiating. Jim will be laid to rest in Roselawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vigo County Historical Society or the Swope Art Museum. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mattoxwood.com