Hoyt Coverstone

Hoyt Orlando Coverstone passed away on December 26, 2013 at Hickory Point Christian Village. Hoyt was born on July 13, 1915 in Jasper County, IL. He was the son of Claud W. and Sylvia (Diel) Coverstone. He married Kathleen Ellen Kibler on June 10, 1939. He graduated from Eastern Illinois Teachers College in 1938 and taught school in Montrose, IL, Flat Rock, IL and Roosevelt Junior High School in Decatur. While teaching, he pursued a degree during the summer at the University of Illinois and in 1943 graduated with a Masters of Science. After graduation, he was hired as a chemist for the Caterpillar Mililtary Engine Co. in Decatur. He moved to the A. E. Staley Co. in 1945. He was hired as Director of the Chemical Engineering Laboratory. Later he transferred to Quality Control and served in that department as chemist, building foreman and Assistant Director of Quality Assurance. He retired in 1977. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church for 58 years where he served in many capacities including elder, deacon and parish visitor. He also belonged to the International LIONS club for over 50 years. As a Lion he helped organize a new club and was District Governor of District 1L in the initial year (1976-77). As a Lion he was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship award, the LIONS of Illinois Foundation Fellow and an International President's appreciation award. He was a member of the American Chemical Society and the American Oil Chemists Society. He was a member of the Society for Quality Control and served as Chairman for one year. He helped organize the Hickory Point Fire Protection District and acted as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for 17 years. After retirement he served with the International Executive Service Corps which assists businesses in developing countries. He had assignments in South Korea, Brazil and Mexico. He acted as a quality control consultant in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico for several years. He assisted the start-up of a corn processing plant in London, Ontario, Canada. Other retirement activities included delivering medicine and general office work for Rambo pharmacy and volunteer work for Catholic Charities. For several years he operated an independent chemical analysis laboratory in his home. One of the highlights of retirement was making and sending newsletters and cards to family, friends, and church members. He received lots of love and wonderful care from the people at Hickory Point Christian Village and was blessed by many visits and cards from family, friends, and members of the church. Hoyt is survived by son Lynn Alan (Carol) Coverstone of Morton, IL; daughter Susan Ellen (William) Grieve of Forsyth, son David William (Patty) Coverstone of St. Louis, MO and special high school friend Myrna Alcoke He also leaves 11 grandchildren and their spouses, 17 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, sister, and one great grandchild. Visitation will be Sunday, December 29 from 3-5 PM at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur, IL. Following private funeral services a memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church on Monday, December 30 at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers -memorials to First Presbyterian Church or Lions International. "
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