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K.C. HOOPER Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for K.C. HOOPER
Beth Lessard
December 7, 2024
Many, many fond and sometimes funny memories!!
James Pettis
December 8, 2022
I met K.C. at Newstage Theatre where I worked when he came to look at our old system and talk to me about an upgrade when all of a sudden he shouted " Are those Parallipsepheres? Indeed they were, still in use as we certainly needed an upgrade of more efficient lighting.
Kathy Farrell
January 25, 2013
I met K.C. at a housing construction site. I was poking around looking for whatever and he was up in the rafters. Being a transplanted, tree climbing Southern girl, I quickly joined him and we became climbing pals. When our climbing options became limited, we still had other adventures with the rest of the gang on 85th place. K.C. always had some invention he was working on, one of my favorites being the gigantic 2 person skateboard. Others may remember the 'rocket' incident, another classic 85th Pl. tale. So, we all grew up and went our separate ways keeping in touch rarely, but knowing that being apart physically never diminished our connection with one another. I look at pictures of K.C. posted here and I still see that 10 year old kid. I will remember him always.
Mimi DeLanie
January 2, 2013
Beth sadly let us all know of KC passing away. He was the best tech friend anyone could ever have. He was always positive, smiling, and creating.
Peace & love to his family.
December 30, 2012
I was just informed of KC's death by a fellow ASU grad colleague and was deeply saddened at the loss of such a wonderful man....my prayers are with his family as they grieve his parting...
James Pettis
December 23, 2012
It was a pleasure meeting K.C. when he came to New Stage Theatre in 2008 to introduce us to the Apollo product line. He got an unexpected surprise when he noticed we still had in use some very old Paralipsphere zooms he hadn't seen since his college teaching days that I constantly had to keep patching up so they wouldn't turn to junk; he pleasantly complimented me in my electronics knowledge, keeping those energy-draining dinosaurs in working order. We met again at USITT in Houston later to exchange pleasantries. I'm glad to have known him personally as my Apollo representative.
Dick & Becky Reiss
December 23, 2012
Our condolences to Jody and sons at K.C.'s passing. We were your neighbors in Mesa when you were at ASU and remember your happy family.
Rick McConnell
December 20, 2012
KC was a great guy and good friend. His wealth of knowledge and great smile will be truly missed.
Steve Shelley
December 20, 2012
I met KC through lighting industry trade shows. I'm a lighting designer and he worked for Apollo. He never failed to be excited about the latest products and advancements in color and light. It always seemed he was the Pied Piper, surrounded by young kids, teaching them about color and passing on his excitement to them as well.
He will be missed in our industry. we all offer our condolences to his wife and family. KC was one of the good guys.
Phil Foster
December 19, 2012
KC was such an incredible person. I spent several years at ASU with him. We spoke often as we passed each other in the Galvin. I was the ME for the theatre department. We had met before when I stopped by when I worked for GAM the first time. He even suggested I go for the ME job. When I returned to GAM back 2007, he once told me that he patterned how he did his job after how I did it for GAM. that is the greatest compliment I could have received, but KC did it so much better than I. KC you leave such wonderful memories for all who knew you, our industry and art is greater for you being part of it.
To KC's family my heart is with you. Just know, every time I saw KC out on the road, he always was looking forward to going home to be with you all. You were always first in his thoughts!
Lou Calarese
December 19, 2012
Our deepest condolences to the Hooper family, and our associates at Apollo. We've known K.C. for so long, we can't imagine our industry without him. His gentle demeanor and innovative creativity were inspiring. He will be sincerely missed.
The staff of Applied Audio & Theatre Supply
December 18, 2012
My most sincere condolences to Jody, Kaulin, Kauner, and Kaury. When I think of KC I think of one word--devotion. KC was so devoted most of all to his family but that devotion extended to lighting design, dance, students, colleagues. There was no distinguishing between working with KC and being friends with him. Even after all the years since we worked at ASU together he stayed in touch and we would always meet for lunch at USITT. This USITT will not be the same without him. There was many a long tech rehearsal when we talked and laughed and got through stressful situations--KC, always with grace. And he would always fix the lights to make my costume designs shine. The light has been especially beautiful lately as we approach the solstice and I know he is busy adding some of his gobo designs and special effects. I feel so lucky to have known KC and am so sorry to see him go--especially for his beloved family.
Marc Berezowski
December 18, 2012
KC was a funny guy and I knew him in the Dance Department at ASU in 1990-93. He was relaxed and steady and had some very good designs which saved many poor pieces of choreography. I remember him making a Giraffe for his new child and thought that was a wonderfull thing to do. I imagine there are many who will miss him dearly and I won't forget him.
Jenny Knott
December 18, 2012
My deepest sympathies for your loss. I just had dinner with KC when he was visiting Connecticut in November and he talked about how proud he was of his family and their accomplishments. He had great hopes for the future of his boys. I met KC when painting for a shop in Minneapolis. He was the only sales person I would take time to see as he always had a smile on his face and a good word to pass on. He was a positive influence and a friendly face for me when I started working for Rosco. I was sad to see him go over to Apollo, but knew we would always be friends. He will be missed as he was one of the good guys. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Ric Alpers
December 18, 2012
My brother, sister and I grew up with K.C. right across the street. He was a good friend. I also worked with him when he was dancing and designing at ASU. A lot of the way I still work with lighting is a direct result of what I learned from him. As with most, time has a way of distancing us from our friends and loved ones, but the memories are clear and the love never fades. He will be missed but not forgotten
Hope Kass
December 18, 2012
KC was a light in so many lives- we can barely imagine the void left in your family at his passing. May the joy and memory of knowing and loving him carry you through the pain of losing him.
Bill Kirby
December 17, 2012
I've known KC since his time at Rosco. He quickly became a guy i would seek out at every tradeshow i attended just to chat and get his unique and very positive view and outlook on what was happening in our industry. I will sadly miss KC's kind, upbeat presence. My sincere condolences to his family.
December 16, 2012
Dear Jody and family. My deepest sympathy. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Berdina
Beth Lessard
December 16, 2012
Dearest Jody, Kaulin, Kauner and Kaury, I simply haven't been able to find the words. May I simply say that K.C. has been on an amazing life journey. He came to the Dance Department interested in dance and technical theatre. He was the first student employee ever to be given keys to the sacred WPE building and studio 132! (No shoes please!) He grew up in and with the dance program and evolving with it to become a first rate professional, teacher, mentor, designer, colleague. I have so many stories of his generosity, love, kindness, imagination and humor (he was the central character and wore Mickey Mouse ears in my "divorce dance." He was a shooting star, leaving us way too soon, but he's in a perfect place now and will be with us always. Love to you all.
Cynthia Newland
December 15, 2012
Psalm 112:4
Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
KC was a vivid light that shinned so brilliantly and this has been confirmed as I have read through the numerous posts. It is evident that KC made a positive and significant impact on the personal lives and artistic endeavors of many.
I had the privilege of being a student of KC in the late 80's as a graduate student at ASU. I remember him fondly as a kind, caring, knowledgeable and servant hearted man who deeply cared for those around him and the field in which he worked.
I pray that his wife and sons will be comforted during this time of loss and mourning. God's Blessings and Peace to you.
Ken Koncsol
December 15, 2012
My heart is broken for you Jody and boys. KC truly was one of a kind - his kindness, thoughtfulness, brilliance and compassion will always live on. "Mr. Meister", our many heart to heart talks, the birth of your first born son, Christmas on Javelina in AZ and so many other events there will forever be cheerished and remembered. Having known you - the pleasure was all mine!
KC at the in-laws. Always fun!
Mike Schiller
December 14, 2012
KC, you were the best brother-in-law anyone could ask for. You will be missed... and remembered in our hearts forever.
The Sperling Family
December 14, 2012
We are so sorry to hear about KC's passing! Our sympathy goes out to all of you.
Rich Mason
December 14, 2012
I heard of KC's passing and wanted to express my deepest condolences to his family. I had the pleasure of meeting KC over 5 years ago. He gave his time to a program I was establishing at Interlochen Summer Arts Camp in Michigan and became a good friend. It was my pleasure to work with him and to have known him. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy to his wife and children.
AJ Epstein
December 14, 2012
KC was a mentor and friend. A generation ago, he taught me (through example) that it was more than OK to mix work with absurd mirth and still be a consumate professional. As a teacher, he gave me permission to just be myself.
He really cared about his students. Several years ago, he walked into my office and noticed an award on my wall. He immediately got out his camera and took a picture with a glow of pride that brought me more happiness than the actual award. I am profoundly sad with the news of his passing.
Shelly Murray
December 14, 2012
My heart goes out to you Jody and family. KC was a great friend, so positive and funny! I have many great memories working with him at ASU. It breaks my heart he is gone but I'm am so lucky to have known him.
Allyson McCullough
December 14, 2012
I met KC as a grad student at ASU in the late 80's. He was generous of heart and embraced every creative impulse with nearly childlike enthusiasm. What a lovely memory...
George Harris
December 14, 2012
I just heard of KC'S passing and I feel like someone has put a lead weitht on my shoulders. My deepest sympathy to Jody and the boys.
Candace Winters-March
December 14, 2012
December 14, 2012
It is with a heavy heart that I send my condolences to Jody and the boys. KC was amazingly upbeat and brought much joy and laughter to us all. While the world is full of good people, KC was truly an exceptional person. I knew him from my grad school days at ASU and recently had the pleasure of reconnecting with him. What a delight it was to hear him speak of his family! He was so proud of his boys and Jody...he seemed absolutely blissful as he related stories of them. I feel so fortunate to have known him and send much love and peace to his wonderful family.
Diane Wawrejko
December 14, 2012
So sorry to hear this news of KC. Jody, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I have such fond memories of our dance times together at ASU!
Sharon Took-Zozaya
December 14, 2012
I knew K.C. back in the mid 80s when he was TD for ASU and I was a grad student. He was always warm, friendly, supportive and creative. I'm sure he will be missed and also honored in the hearts of many.
Gregory Catellier
December 14, 2012
I met KC when I was an undergraduate dance major at ASU and he was the TD. Now I'm the TD at dance program in higher ed. I feel we were kindred spirits. KC was a kind, supportive, and funny man. I learned much from watching how he did his work and treated others. I will miss his wit, sincerity and annual chats we had as he made his round with Apollo. My sincere condolences to his family.
Melanie Clayton Edens
December 14, 2012
I will always remember K.C.'s amazing sense of humor, his love for all aspects of dance and performance, his willingness to work long hours to make our performances at ASU the very best, and his gentle soul. My heart goes out to his wife and family. Please know that K.C. leaves a legacy of love and light and happiness.
Dominika Gaines
December 14, 2012
It is with great sadness that I read this news. I, too, have fond memories of KC from my undergrad years at ASU. He was charming, lively, and so sweet. How lucky I am to be able to count him among my teachers.
My sympathies to Jody, her family and his colleagues.
December 14, 2012
I am so very saddened to hear the news of KC's passing. I was fortunate enough to have KC as my teacher, and friend while doing my Undergrad at ASU. His humor and wonderfully light way of dealing with all situations (especially the stressful ones...)helped me through on many occasions. KC, you will be missed, dearly!! Thank you for all you taught me. All my love to his family, my thoughts are with you all!
Kim Swimmer
Steve Jacobs
December 14, 2012
I came to know KC professionally through the Theatrical Skills Workshops I organize for students in the Chicago area. I am delighted to have been able to work with such a knowledgeable, easy going, and good natured theatre professional. KC will be missed by all who knew and worked with him. My condolences to his family and close friends.
Sarah Novotny
December 14, 2012
I am sad to learn of K.C.'s passing. I have many fond memories of K.C. from my grad school days at ASU. His positive attitude and fantastic sense of humor made many stressful situations not only bearable, but actually a lot of fun. I remember the huge laugh attack we had before a performance. We laughed so hard we were crying! I'll never forget him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Wendy Trakas-Bader
December 14, 2012
I will miss you, my dear friend.
Wendy Trakas-Bader
December 14, 2012
I am proud to have known KC for over 30 years (via ASU Dance). We kept in touch via email and our last conversation was just last Friday. One of the things he wrote: "The other day I did a small part of Bill Evans' Salt Lake City Rag for my youngest son to freak him out and he laughed, it worked."
I could tell he loved his family very much and was so proud of his boys. My heart and hugs go out to them.
KC kept such a positive attitude through his cancer ordeal. He was, and still is, an inspiration to me. I learned so much from him.
In his honor and memory, his wish would be for all his friends, etc. to get screened for colon cancer.
That's the least I can do.
I will miss you KC, my dear friend.
Love,
Wendy
Lee Robert
December 13, 2012
KC was a true delight to work with - at ASU during Senior Performance, he was an encouraging Buddy and support. Thank you KC for living nobly! My prayers for your family.
KC with the girls at ASU
Laurie Eisenhower
December 13, 2012
Wow, I'm so sorry to hear the news. KC was a good friend to all who had the opportunity to get to know him. In the 70's we danced together at ASU and he performed a duet with me in my senior performance. He always had a smile on his face, was very supportive of my work, and continually made me laugh with his quick wit. Over the years, he made an effort to stay in touch with a periodic phone call when he was in Michigan. He was so committed to his wife and family...you could hear the glow in his voice when he spoke of them. My sympathies to Jodie and the children. He will be missed...
Jennifer Camp
December 13, 2012
KC was my lighting and production professor at ASU. He opened my eyes to lighting for dance in such an engaging way. I still utilize the information he taught me to teach my own students. I am feel so fortunate to have had KC as my teacher.
Teddy Araas
December 13, 2012
KC & I were great friends throughout our time at ASU. I remember him fondly as my buddy who ate hamburgers three meals a day! He was always there for me as a true friend. My whole family sends condolences to all family. Blessings & peace dear KC.
Leslie Ptak Baker
December 13, 2012
So sorry to hear this news. K.C. was so much a part of ASU Dance when I was there in the 70's. Such a giving and positive person. Peace to his family.
Barb Hoffman
December 13, 2012
Sorry to hear about K.C. I worked in Dance many years ago, but stayed in touch with many still. It was always a joy when "Hoop" stopped by the office. He put smiles on everyone's face! I loved his sense of humor. I will say prayers for family. I lost my Dad to cancer when I was 12. I feel so sad that others have to still suffer because of cancer. Why isn't there a cure? So sorry.
December 13, 2012
k.c. IS ONE-OF-A-KIND!!! a SWEETHEART. i KNEW HIM BACK IN THE 70'S AND 80'S. hE WAS ALWAYS KIND, HELPFUL ,,, AND OFCOURSE A GREAT PRO @ HIS CALLING. LIGGHT IT UP ... UP THERE K.C.!!! LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOUR FAMIILY. AVIS (aka: Stephens) ARCHAMBULT In SCOTTSDALE, AZ
December 13, 2012
In the early 1970s, KC and I learned to dance in the same classes. I will always remember watching him turn into a young man as he worked for years in the dance department. A very creative soul I'll never forget!
Roberta Burnett (Bender)
Paul Vincent
December 13, 2012
I will miss KC's kind nature, infectious smile and curiosity. He was always ready to lend a hand or a good ear to help someone out. We talked about suba diving, sailing, vacations, family and sometimes even work.
He was simply wonderful to be around, and always left you feeling better, both during and after his visits. Of course, the fact that he almost always brought doughnuts, which he did this week couldn't help but put people in a good mood. He had no other reason to come visit this time, except to say hello and check in with everyone. Makes me think he might have been saying goodbeye.
We will miss him! Our fondest thoughts go out to Jody, Kaulin, Kauner and Kaury.
I had a cheeseburger in KC's honor today, and we had a little chat. As usual, I did most of the talking and he did most of the listening, and afterwards, I felt better - as usual.
Kevin Dreyer
December 13, 2012
KC and I bonded over conversations about dance lighting. We first met over a drop in visit and a new product. He was with Rosco at the time and while I always tried to be gracious with folks who made these calls, I remember being a bit hesitant to set up an appointment. I am so glad I did.
This was a while ago, 8 - 10 years maybe, I don't know because the great thing about KC is that after one visit you felt like you were old friends. The only visits I missed from him from then on where when I was out of town or in class when he called.
We got together through the conventions and trade shows - USITT and LDI. His usual question when I dropped by the booth would be, "seen anything interesting out there?" We would talk about our families, about teaching about the business. I am sure we talked products in there and I was always aware any new things. "Here let me show you this" it would start out and it usually ended with "how do you think we could make it better."
That one is easy to answer. KC, you never could make it any better, you were fine just the way you were.
I was caught completely off guard when I got the word today. I no longer know how to answer "How can we make it better?"
Michael Burgoyne
December 13, 2012
I've had the pleasure of knowing K.C. for over 12 years, he was a wonderful person. My sincere condolences to his family. He will certainly be missed.
Esthere Strom
December 13, 2012
You just look at KC's face and can see the wonderful man he was. A beautiful light that lived among us for not nearly long enough. KC and I always shared stories of our families with our children so close in ages. He was always so excited to tell me the latest story. Hooper family vactions sounded story book to me. Soccer games that I think he wished had gone on forever, he loved to watch them play that much. We travled some toegher when we were with Rosco and he always made it a point to come see me at Barbizon. The world is missing a piece of it's heart today as we mourn the loss. KC was the rarest of souls, truly warm and good. I miss you dear friend. My heart goes out to his wife and boys. We all wish there was someway we could bring solace to you. Know that he loves you and will always be with you. Be at peace knowing that KC is as well.
Ron Simms
December 13, 2012
Sorry to hear this news. I met KC back in the late 70s and although we lost touch over the years I remember the fun times we had. Go light up the heavens KC!
Cheryl & Eli Goldner
December 13, 2012
K.C. was one of the nicest people you could know. He always had a kind word to say to and about everyone. He will be missed. Our prayers & thoughts are with Jody,Kaulin, Kauner & Koury.
The Goldner Family
John Cooke
December 13, 2012
I'm truly saddened. My thoughts & prayers are with KC's family & coworkers. Always a smile on his face and a willingness to help others. He'll be missed.
Coco and Frans Klinkenberg
December 13, 2012
How fortunate we are to have had 40 years of friendship with K.C. How richer our lives have been just knowing him. We are crushed by the loss of our dear friend and our hearts go out to Jody and the boys at this sad time. He will be so greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
Helen & Frank Willard
December 13, 2012
We are so sad to hear of KC's passing. Our thoughts are with his family and friends who will miss him so. May all the wonderful memories help give you peace.
Keith Kankovsky
December 13, 2012
I had the great pleasure of working with KC over the years, learning more about his kind nature than the craft of theater lighting. Gracious and humble with an infectious sense of humor, the room lit up and I felt more relaxed when KC entered. Conversation often turned to our families, with pride beaming in his eyes when Jody and the boys were discussed, enthusiastically detailing martial arts, soccer and daily life in the Hooper household.
When stressful situations arise I often find myself wondering how KC would react, and then I take a deep breath and sort things out. I think he had this effect on others as well. He couldn't help it and likely didn't even know it.
My life has been enriched with KC's friendship and I am honored to consider him a mentor, friend and brother. God bless you KC and your wonderful family, those who brought you great joy and immense pride.
Joel Nichols
December 13, 2012
KC has always brought a gentle curiosity to our company and industry. Willing to work on any project that needed done. He was some one we went to when looking at new products or what the industry was thinking. He touched and influenced so many around him with his supportive nature. His two loves where his family and our industry. He will be missed by so many.
Joel & Keersten
The Lowenkamp Family
December 13, 2012
We were so sorry to hear of KC"s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
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