Louie C. Canova, Jr. age 98, of Middleburg passed away Monday, March 26, 2012 at his residence. Mr. Canova was born on October 1, 1913 in Palatka to Louie C. Canova Sr. and Katherine Beall Canova. His early childhood was spent on a farm in Penney Farms and later moved to Fleming Island near Swimming Pen Creek where Louie helped to work the family's own farm. It was with Louie's assistance that his father became known as the Little Potato King. His mother was the Clay County Nurse and traveled about the county while the men farmed. He drove the school bus to Clay High School to attend school and graduate. In 1931 he joined the Civilian Conservation Corp and spent two years in the Muscle Shoals, AL area. In 1934 he graduated from diesel mechanic school but, returned to work the farm to meet the family needs. He later worked for the Frank Huntley Stores and met and married his wife of 72 years Marie Sharpe. Louie then moved to Middleburg and became partners with L.E. Gnann. This partnership became the Gnann Canova Land and Cattle Company. They operated a sawmill, cattle operation, small truck farm and the general store Middleburg Grocery and Hardware. He served his community on the Zoning Board, was active in the Middleburg Civic Center, and played community baseball for Doctor's Inlet and Middleburg. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Middleburg where he served as a life deacon, church treasurer for over 20 years, and sang in the choir. Louie was a loving and caring husband, father and Christian who helped many. In addition to his wife and parents he was also preceded in death by his siblings Raymond and Francis. Survivors are children: Phyllis Canova Pruitt and husband Sam; Louie C. Canova, III and wife Marilyn; 6 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren. The family will receive friends at the First Baptist Church of Middleburg on Thursday, March 29, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with funeral services beginning at 11o'clock. Interment will follow in the Middleburg Methodist Church Cemetery. Reverend Alan Floyd will officiate. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 2645 Blanding Blvd., Middleburg, FL 32068. Arrangements are by Helm-Gallagher Funeral Home.
Florida Times Union, Mar 28 2012