John Hooper

DELMAR - Beloved, John R. Hooper died on Friday, November 8, 2013 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. He was born in Albany, NY on January 25, 1930 to Francis E. Hooper and Catherine E. Nagle. John attended Christian Brothers Academy in Albany, and graduated from St. Bonaventure University, Olean, NY. After college John was a 1st lieutenant in the Army and later a Captain in the Army reserves. In 1951, John married the love of his life, Mary Theresa Roche (Theresa). Happily married for over 62 years, John and Theresa raised six children in Delmar, NY: Mary Catherine Lodico (Robert), Nora A. Hooper (Rick Wielgorecki), Carol T. Hooper-Cahill (Brian Cahill), John J. Hooper (Mary), Claire E. McDermott (Michael), and Robert F. Hooper (Cindy). John truly loved being surrounded by his 19 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He is also survived by one sister, Jean Zecker and three brothers, Frank, David and Terence Hooper. John worked as a Salesman for Maxwell House Coffee and Gould Erectors before purchasing Reed Equipment Company. He was a dedicated communicant of St. Thomas Church in Delmar, NY for over 52 years. John coached boys and girls CYO basketball for St. Thomas School for over 31 years. He dedicated his time as a Eucharistic minister, CCD teacher, and Parish Council and St Vincent De Paul member during his time in the parish. John, a lover of sports, also enjoyed coaching his sons, John and Bob's, Babe Ruth Little League teams. He was an avid golfer and started golfing at the age of 4. John also loved the Boston Red Sox and the New York Giants. John was loved by many: his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, his family and friends. His everlasting devotion and faith in God, his love for Theresa, his love of family and friends, his incredible sense of humor, his dedication to helping others, and his honest and true heart is not lost. He will be greatly missed and will remain in our hearts forever. The family wishes to thank Our Lady of Mercy's staff for the wonderful care and compassion shown during John's stay. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, November 11, 2013 from 4 to 7pm at the Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave., Delmar. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at 9:30am in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 35 Adams Pl., Delmar. Burial will be in Bethlehem Cemetery, Delmar. Contributions in John's memory can be sent to the St Thomas School or the Charity of one's choice.