Chris Robert Hovind

It is with a heavy heart our family announces that Chris Robert Hovind, age 62, of St. Joe Beach, FL passed away Monday, August 14, 2023, at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Hospital in Panama City, FL. Chris was born on January 9, 1961, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Gerald and Mary (Harmston) Hovind.

As a child, Chris was known for his quick wit, compassionate personality, and humor, which would carry throughout his life. After graduating High School, Chris attended U.W Stout in Menomonie, WI, and District 1 Technical School in Eau Claire, WI, becoming certified in Machine Tool Technology. Soon after, the high seas and Chris’ love of country were calling. In 1985, Chris joined the United States Navy; little did he know this would be a decision that would change the trajectory of his life. Chris was stationed on the USS Hunley, Sub Tender, (AS-31) in Holy Loch, Scotland. Chris played a pivotal role in ensuring our nation’s submarines were maintained and ready for service. He also developed exquisite carpentry skills while working for the Chief of Submarines, which would become a passion later in life. While stationed in Scotland, Chris met and married the love of his life, Lindsay, and in 1988, Chris returned to land and became a Precision CNC Machinist from 1988 till 2015, when he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. But don’t be mistaken; this diagnosis did not deter Chris from pursuing and loving life. A Navy man, a carpenter, a machinist, but at his core, Chris was much more. The love of family is what made Chris feel alive. Chris loved few things more than deep conversations and time spent with family and friends.

Chris is survived by his wife, Lindsay, daughter Heidi (Allen), and Grandson Jonathan; 2 brothers, Peter (Georgette) and Charlie (Allison); many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was adored by every one of them.

Chris was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Hovind, and his mother, Mary Hovind (Harmston).

Fortunately, in recent years, Chris has spent time doing precisely what he wanted, fishing, going on trips to the place he loved so much, Scotland. As well as spending time with his family and pursuing that passion for carpentry he had developed decades prior and the artistic talent he got from his mom, Mary, who was an artist. Chris’ days were spent building lighthouses, fishing lures, and wooden bowls, and his weekends were spent with his wife Lindsay, daughter Heidi, and grandson Jonathan, whom he loved with all his heart.

There will be many ways to celebrate and honor Chris’ legacy in the coming weeks and months. His family and friends in Florida will take time to reminisce and honor Chris on the sandy beaches he loved. Chris will also journey back to where it all started in Wisconsin for a float down the Namekagon River where he and Lindsay lived for over two decades. Before long, Chris’ final wish will be fulfilled, and he and Lindsay will return to Scotland, the place where they first met all those years ago.

Comforter Funeral Home, 601 Long Ave, Port St Joe, FL, is helping to assist with Chris’ transition from this earth. In lieu of flowers, our family asks that you do what Chris would love the most. Cherish time with your family and friends, pursue your passions, and reminisce about your time with Chris. Soon enough, the memory of Chris will bring a smile to your face before it brings a tear to your eye.

Chris Robert Hovind. A beautiful man. A beautiful soul.