Claude Billy William Hoke

Billy was born in Catawba County on October 16, 1924 to the late Claude P. Hoke and Florence Sigmon Hoke. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Grace Setzer Hoke; sister, Florene Hoke Gantt Bryson; and nephew, Larry Gantt. He is survived by a nephew, Michael Gantt.

An active lifetime member of Concordia Lutheran Church, Billy served on numerous boards and was a member of Lutheran Laymen League. Billy was known in the community for his passion of selling tickets for the annual Concordia LLL steak dinner and Camp Linn Haven BBQ and raffle.

A World War II decorated veteran, he was assigned to Army 109 Infantry; 28th Division Co “C” from April 1944 to August 1945. He served our country in England, France, Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany. Billy earned many medals and special awards including: Purple Heart; Bronze Star; European African-Middle East WW II Victory; Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award; Campaign Medal; Honorable Service Lapel Button WW II; Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar.

Billy quit school in the 8th grade to begin public work at Warlong Glove. He was drafted to the army at 18 years of age and after returning home worked until retirement at Jackson Buff Co. Not graduating from high school, he generously and privately supported Christian education for many students at Concordia Christian Day School and University High School.

A service to celebrate Billy’s life will be held at Concordia Lutheran Church, Conover on Saturday September 2nd at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Paul Nelson will officiate. Burial will follow at Conover Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Concordia Christian Day School, Scholarship Fund, 215 5th Ave SE Conover, NC 28613.

Condolences may be sent to the Hoke family at www.drumfh-conover.com

The Hoke family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Drum Funeral Home & Cremations in Conover.