Kyle J. Hovland

NEENAH, Wis. — Kyle J. Hovland, beloved son, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at the young age of 39, leaving a void in our hearts forever.

Kyle was born and raised in Oshkosh, Wis., where he attended Oshkosh North High School. After high school he attended college at UW-Stout, pursuing a degree in computer science. Shortly after, he enlisted in the Army National Guard in 2008.

He felt called to serve his country and contribute to something bigger than himself. His time in the Army was one of the things he was most proud of, even getting a tattoo “Freedom isn’t Free.” He worked until the time of his death as a network engineer.

Though Kyle’s life was cut short, he made time for his many hobbies, family and friends. He had a strong bond with his core group of childhood friends. They enjoyed fishing, smoking meats, and having LAN parties. He was a member of his local YMCA, where he attended group fitness classes. He completed several Tough Mudders and recently a triathlon. He was active in AA, attending and organizing get-together’s in the Iron Mountain area. Kyle found solace in the outdoors. He was known for camping during all temperatures with his dog, Zinnia, taking his boats out and was an avid hunter.

What we remember Kyle for most is his tender and generous heart. He showed up for the people in his life and valued those connections most.

Kyle was an exceptional son, brother, uncle, and friend, and will be greatly missed by his parents, John Hovland and Cynthia Palm; his brother, Keith (Mariah) Hovland, and their children: Berkeley, Parker, Nash, and Tessa; his sister, Beth Hovland; his grandmother, Mimi Kratzke; his best friends, Dave (Alex) Jansen and Ben (Sarah) App; as well as other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Roger and Etelka Hovland; and his maternal grandfather, Gerald Kratzke

As we mourn the loss of Kyle, we also celebrate the beautiful life he lived. His legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created with his family and friends. Kyle leaves behind an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him, and he will be deeply missed.

A time of gathering will be held at 11 a.m., followed by a memorial service at noon on Feb. 21 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 809 S. Commercial St, Neenah, WI 54956. Directly following the service, the family invites all who were part of his life to share their memories and celebrate the extraordinary life of Kyle John Hovland at a luncheon at 1 p.m. at the Marine Corps League Detachment No. 357, 4715 Sherman Road, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

To celebrate his constant presence in our lives, we are asking flowers be sent to his mother, Cindy Palm, throughout the year.