Charles Leroy Hooks

Friday, November 13, 2020

Charles Leroy Hooks, beloved father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully on the morning of November 9th, 2020 in Mountain Home with his son at his side.

Charles was born February 18th, 1933 in Detroit, Michigan to Lee and Ethel Hooks. After his family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio in 1934, Charles spent his youth with his brother Carlisle, doing things kids do. Baseball, track and field, hunting rats in the junk yard and accidentally shooting a hole in the ceiling, he definitely kept his parents busy. Most importantly Charlie learned a strong drive from his father. This work ethic was instilled while watching his dad grind day in day out, as a railroad worker, providing for his family. That same drive enabled Charlie to complete a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University and later start a family with Barbara Ann Hooks in 1957. Subsequently the Hooks family relocated to South Bend, Indiana in 1977.

He took some amazing vacations, made some awesome memories and cultivated close relationships with family and friends. Charlie’s upbeat personality and sense of humor will be especially remembered and deeply missed. He was also an avid judo competitor, awarded a 7th degree black belt, with 5 national championship, and an Olympics trials competitor. Additionally, he traveled to Japan, Alaska and Germany in the pursuit of his judoka passion. Charlie’s other addictions were scuba diving, relaxing in tropical destinations and sports cars. He set a strong spiritual foundation by leading his family with regular attendance and volunteering at their local church.

The biggest lesson that Charlie passed on were “being dedicated to the work in front of you” and to “engage with life on your terms/doing it your way.”

Charlie is survived by his sons, Charles and Jason and daughters, Kim and Jessica, and blessed with being able to spend time with his 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, his wife; Barbara Ann, and his brother; Carlisle.

Love you dad, you will be missed.