Barbara E. Hooker, 83, of Coldwater, formerly of Bronson, passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at her home.
The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2013 at 1:00 PM at Dutcher-Kolcz Funeral Home in Bronson with Pastor Terry Siler from the First Congregational Church officiating. Interment will follow at Bronson Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, prior to the service beginning at 10:00 AM at Dutcher-Kolcz Funeral Home.
Barbara was born February 10, 1930 in Jackson, MI to Fred & Gould (Harper) Gwilt. She married Nolan E. Hooker on June 20, 1948 in Union City, he preceded her in death in 1973.
Mrs. Hooker spent most of her life in the Bronson area. She and her husband owned and operated Hooker Oil, where she was the secretary, for many years. Barbara had also earned her LPN certification and had worked as a nurse at Maple Lawn for approx 5 years.
Her greatest joy in life was her family. She was passionate about her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and enjoyed, immensely, the time they spent together. Barbara also enjoyed playing cards and co-founded, with friends, the B & B Bridge Club. She spent time volunteering in the schools to serve her community and help young children. Her sense of humor was shared with all who met her.
Barbara is survived by her children Dee (Michael) Barney of Shelbyville, Noralin (David) Brandt of Portage, Rick (Linda) Hooker, Nancy Younce all of Coldwater, her grandchildren Barb (Eric) McNamara of Shelbyville, Janet (Chad) Allen of Dorr, Jeff (Isabella) Hooker, Rick (April) Hooker all of Battle Creek, Matt Brandt of Charlotte, MacKenzie (Jamie) Stuck of Scotts, Lance Younce of Jackson, Kendra (Jason) Haid of Lafayette, IN, Cassy Younce of Fishers, IN, 14 great grandchildren and her special friend and caregiver Julie LaPratt of Bronson. In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by her brothers Jack, Tom & Bob Gwilt.
Memorials may be directed to Great Lakes Hospice. www.dutcherfh.com.