Howard Anthony Hoge, 65, passed away peacefully at home with family at his side on July 19, 2025, in Ocala, Florida. Born April 1, 1960, in Peoria, Illinois, to Donald and Ruth Hoge, Howard lived a life grounded in hard work, generosity, and integrity. On December 12, 2009, he married Antoinette Wozniak, and together they blended their families into one, creating a home filled with love, respect, care, and shared values. Howard was a lifelong truck driver who took great pride in his work and retired in 2018. Even in retirement, he never stopped moving—he found joy in golfing, tending to his flower beds, and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back, always showing up for family, friends, and neighbors. A devoted fan of John Wayne, Howard admired and lived by the Duke's code: tough but fair, principled, and always loyal. His kindness was steady and sincere, his sense of humor sharp, and his love for those close to him deep and enduring. He was truly a man people leaned on—loved by many, and respected by all who knew him.

Howard is survived by his wife Antoinette Hoge of Ocala, FL, children; Janelle (TJ) Olson of Minonk, IL, Angela (Joshua) Olson of Dana, IL, Marcy (Josh) Eggemeyer of Coulterville, IL, Robert Wozniak Jr of Coldwell, ID, Eileen (Cory Goodrich) Wozniak of Rock Island, IL, and Vern Hoge of Hardin, IL,  a sister Rita (David) Houchin of Bloomington, IL, and a brother Terry (Jan) Hoge of Wenona, IL. He was a proud grandfather to Kayli Olson, Serina Olson, Wyatt Olson, Bo Wozniak, William Perozo, Damien Olson, Sylum Olson, and Dahila Wozniak. Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Ruth Hoge, and his in-laws Thomas and Eileen Waicosky. Howard will be remembered as a kind and selfless man who found joy in the simple things—family, friendship, and a well-told western. His presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Services will be held on September 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Cemetery, East 7th Street, Wenona, IL 61377, with Pastor Mark Gruden officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 117 Walnut Street, Wenona, IL 61377. The family asks guests to wear purple in honor of celebrating Howard and the legacy he leaves behind.