Jack Hovingh

Lab retiree Jack Hovingh of Pleasanton died March 7 from complications of type 2 diabetes. He was 77.

Born May 5, 1935 in Allendale, Michigan, he graduated from the University of Michigan in 1958 with degrees in math and mechanical engineering.

He moved to California and started his career at LLNL with his then wife Patsy. They lived on the Rowell Ranch for several years until purchasing a home in Castro Valley. In 1973 he earned a master's degree in nuclear engineering from the UC Berkeley. He continued working at the Lab for more than 40 years until his retirement, designing power reactors and publishing several scientific papers. He had many friends at the Lab.

Hovingh coached the Miss Softball America team and the Castro Valley Little League teams.

A longtime resident of Pleasanton, he was involved in the planning commission and the general plan review for the city.

He enjoyed hiking the Swiss Alps, backpacking in the Arctic, fine food, music and reading.

He is preceded in death by his sons Mark Hovingh and James Robert.

He is survived by his brother Peter Hovingh (Margo), sister Donna Nanninga (Wayne), daughter Mary Hovingh (Mike) and grandchildren Kelly Kincaid, Jodie Kincaid and Nick Kincaid.

Contributions may be made in his name to his chosen organization, Suicide Prevention.

A remembrance get together will be scheduled for a future date. For further information, please send an Mary.Hovingh [at] att.net (e-mail).