John Robert Hoag, 91

John Robert Hoag, of Lakewood, passed away Nov. 2, 2021, at the age of 91.

He was born Oct. 6, 1930, in Cleveland, Ohio, the third of four children. John was drafted into the Army during the Korean War, serving as a sergeant in the Survey Corps. On returning, unable to afford college, he took a job as a waiter in Ithaca, N.Y., home of Cornell University, where he accidentally spilled a pitcher of beer on a young woman who would become his future wife.

After moving to Chicago and starting his family, he became a salesman for a chemical wholesaling house, and it was not long before he decided to open his own company. With a loan from his father-in-law, he started Jayar-Hoag Chemical Co. out of a tiny office and single station wagon. The business thrived and allowed him to retire comfortably.

John and his wife, Dorothy, enjoyed travel and fine wine. John’s passion was golf, and he was often the club champion at Turnberry Country Club, of which he was a founding member. His greatest moment was to play Turnberry of Scotland, and he played courses around the world. John was jovial and generous and loved sharing wine with his friends.

John is survived by his children, Julia, who is a veterinarian; Andrew, who has a Ph.D. in history; and Martha, who is a sommelier.

A celebration of John’s life will be planned in the future. 

People wishing to remember his life are encouraged to donate to the ACLU.

For online condolences, visit davenportfamily.com or call 815-459-3411 for information.