Xander Jett Hover

Xander Jett Hover, 15, of South Jordan, Utah, passed away on April 02, 2026. He was born on December 02, 2010, and in his 15 years, lived a life full of passion, purpose, and a kind of energy that could never be contained.

Xander was the beloved son of Jessie and Nicole Hover, and proud brother to Austin, Brittany (Morgan Pro), MaKenna, Beckham, Willow, and Knox. He was a cherished grandson of Randy and Carolyne Hover, and Lisa and Michael Gaffney. He was also a fun-loving uncle to Ryder and Ridley, a role he embraced with his usual enthusiasm and heart.

Xander was truly one of a kind – outgoing, passionate, always smiling, and completely self – driven. He had a way of connecting with anyone, whether it was a toddler or someone well into their later years. He could walk into any room and leave it filled with laughter. If you were having a bad day, Xander would find a way to make it better – usually with a joke, a story, or just being his genuine, caring self.

He lived life fast and full, never one to sit still for long. Whether he was out hunting at sunrise, casting a line in the water, working on trucks, taking pictures of wildlife and sunsets, or chasing his next goal, Xander was always doing something. His love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, duck hunting, in particular, held a special place in his heart. If there were ducks flying, that’s exactly where you’d find him.

Xander’s drive and ambition showed in everything he did. He started his own business, Cracked Out Waterfowl, where he created hats, shirts, hoodies, and duck calls – combining his entrepreneurial spirit with what he loved most. Recently, he had begun a new adventure in drag racing, earning his Junior Street License and proudly carrying his nickname, “Pink Panther.” But even with the thrill of racing, nothing ever compared to the peace and excitement he found in the outdoors.

More than anything, Xander was a hard worker who never gave up. He faced life head on, always pushing forward, always chasing something bigger. He had a spark in him that couldn’t be dimmed, a determination that inspired everyone around him.

Some of the best memories of Xander aren’t just one moment, but him constantly moving, laughing, joking, and bringing people together. He had a rare gift: the ability to make everyone feel like they mattered and he did it effortlessly.

Xander leaves behind a family who loves him beyond words and a community that will never forget him. His impact, his laughter, and his spirit will live on in every early morning hunt, every cast in the water, every roar of an engine, and every story told with a smile.

He may have been known as the “Pink Panther,’ but to those who loved him, he was something even greater – a bright light, a big heart, and a wild spirit that forever runs free.

Service Details

A viewing will be held on April 11, 2026, from 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM. Services to follow at 1:30 – 3:30 at South Mountain Community Church, 14216 South Bangerter Pkwy, Draper, UT 84020. Graveside dedication to follow at 4 PM at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092. PLEASE wear Camo or what makes you comfortable, this Is a celebration of his life.