Connection to SkyKart Stands:
It had started with a few shared words, then a phone call, then a meeting of the minds. A voice, seasoned with the crackle of age and a hint of determined enthusiasm, belonged to Bob Hoover. 81 years young, a fighter pilot in his past life, now setting his sights on the buzzing world of karting. His request was straightforward: a one-man kart lift, collapsible and compact enough for his SUV, operated by a simple crank. The commercially available stands were, derived from Bob's sentiments, clunky contraptions fit for a hangar, not a Honda.
Alex, a welder since the age of 12, had initially seen it as just another job. But something in Bob's voice, that echo of daring and precision, had resonated. He'd said yes. After a few weeks in the shop, FP1 emerged, a solid proof of concept. It lifted the demo kart with a satisfying turn of the crank, then folded neatly as promised.
Unfortunately, Bob passed away unexpectedly before the final showing of his request. A quiet sadness settled over the shop, but the ideas grew louder. FP1, and now FP2 and FP3 stand out as a testament to Bob’s and Alex’s connection and collaboration. A tangible link between two people who met briefly but shared a spirit for adventure. These are more than kart stands; they are a tribute to Bob and the unexpected bonds forged in a shared goal.
Service History:
Bob served in the Navy as a Lieutenant (LT, O-3) with a primary specialty of 2539 - Legal Military Law. He is a Vietnam veteran who served four years active-duty service (1965-1969) and survived nearly 90 combat missions. Bob was honorably discharged 29 August 1969 and completed his reserve obligation 27 January 1971.
Mr. Hoover earned: Air Medal w/ 3 bronze stars (4 awards), Navy Unit Commendation w/ 1 bronze star (2 awards), Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device.
Life History:
This man dedicated his life to service, adventure, and family. Growing up in Montour Falls, he enjoyed boating, fast cars, fishing, and hunting, even skipping school for the latter. His love for the outdoors was second only to his love for family. He met his wife, Merrily, in college, earned education degrees, and became a Naval Aviator, surviving 87 combat missions in Vietnam while always expressing his love for his family in letters home. Upon returning, he became a beloved educator for 25 years and later an Assistant Superintendent, maintaining lifelong friendships with colleagues and impacting countless students. His retirement allowed more time for his passions and family, especially with his children Brent, Shannon, and Krista and his 10 grandchildren! He also dedicated 27 years to Bristol Mountain Ski Patrol. Driven by a desire to help veterans, he founded OASIS Adaptive Sport, providing outdoor recreational opportunities. He was known for his genuine interest in everyone he met and gave selflessly with great compassion.
Mr. Hoover's obituary may be found at this link: Click here