Charles Hovermale

Charles W. “Todd” Hovermale, Age 83, passed away Monday, October 3, 2022.  Born January 14, 1939 in Winchester, Kentucky to John and Lois Thackara Hovermale who preceded him in death.

He served in the Army Reserve from 1957 to 1965. He became a firefighter for Grandview Heights Fire Department in 1960 serving alongside his father who was a Captain.  Todd went on to become Fire Chief in 1971 and served until he retired in 1988. 

As fire chief, he was active with the Central Ohio Fire Chiefs, and along with Chiefs Raymond Fadley (Columbus) and Louis Sanford (Sharon Twp.) was instrumental in establishing an automatic response system of mutual aid that is still in use today.   Chief Hovermale also developed the fire station numbering system still used in central Ohio to this day.

During his tenure as fire chief, Grandview Heights began paramedic service in the 1970s, and entered into a partnership with several other departments to establish the Northwest Area Strike Team to combat arson, and to respond to hazardous materials emergencies.  He also oversaw the long-standing partnership with Grandview Heights City Schools to assure that all students learned CPR in health class.

Chief Hovermale was also a champion of safety – for both his firefighters and the public  - helping to begin the use of “safety colors” for fire division apparatus - all trucks being purchased with yellow paint, and using retro-reflective striping and lettering on the vehicles.

Todd was an avid fisherman and enjoyed target shooting at his range in the Hocking Hills.  He is survived by several cousins and many good friends.

A graveside service will be held, Thursday, October 20th at 11:00 AM at Wesley Chapel Cemetery, 3225 Dublin Rd., Hilliard, Ohio.