Leon J. Sovey

Leon J. Sovey

ESCANABA — Leon J. Sovey, age 84, of Escanaba, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at University of Wisconsin Madison Hospital.

Leon grew up in Escanaba, the son of Henry and Lillian [LaMarche] Sovey.  In his early years, Leon was a member of the Escanaba Golden Gloves Boxing Team and The Escanaba Stock Car Association as a driver and safety inspector.  Working as a lineman and field supervisor for Cable Constructors of Iron Mountain, Leon traveled extensively throughout the United States.    

An avid NASCAR fan, Leon with his twin brother LeRoy and brother Terry, drove his motorhome to many NASCAR races to cheer on his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt Sr. and in later years, Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Currently his enjoyment came from working in the kitchen of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church making pasties with his friends, Friday night card games with his siblings and friends, and fishing with his great grandchildren. Leon cherished the time spent with his family.

Leon is survived by his children, Timothy (Kathy) Sovey, Tammy (Mike) Karkkainen, and Tina Sovey-Koish; brothers, Leroy Sovey and Terry Sovey; sisters, Bonnie (Karl) Kutz, Connie (Alan) Ettenhoffer, Vickie Bullard, and Brenda (Greg) Mott-Brunette; grandchildren, Kevin (Ashley) Karkkainen, Kelsey (Nick) Herrild, Kari Karkkainen, Jacob Koish, Jennifer (Joey) Taskey, Jessica Koish, and Jarred Sovey; 7 great-grandchildren; honorary sister, Marland Mosier; special friend, Claudia Garland; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents; son, Leon Thomas Sovey; grandson, Zachary Sovey-Koish; brother, Tim (Linda) Sovey; and brothers-in-law, Robert Bullard and Fred Mott.

Family will receive friends on Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Skradski Funeral Home in Escanaba from 10 a.m. to noon. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:30 p.m. at the St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Jeff Kurtz officiating. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall. Leon will be laid to rest at Gardens of Rest Cemetery at 3 p.m. To offer online condolences or for more information, please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Sovey family.