Talia Van Hook

Talia Van Hook passed from this world on January 14, 2026. She was surrounded by her family and devoted caregivers, all of whom deeply mourn her death. Tally lived a full and useful life and contributed to those around her despite the daily challenges of a progressive neuromuscular disease.

Tally was born in Shreveport, La. on December 29, 1953. Throughout grade school, she lived in the Southwest with her loving and active family. She graduated from Meadowbrook High School in Richmond, Virginia, where she excelled in academics, was a cheerleader and an overall happy person.

Tally attended the University of Virginia, in just the second class of women at that university. A diligent student, she had the distinction of passing the CPA examination before graduating in 1975. At Virginia, she met her future husband, Bob, on the tennis court during gym class. Neither played tennis. Both liked going out to dinner with friends.

Tally and Bob were married in 1977 and spent the next 48 years together. They had two boys, Wesley and Andrew. Both Wes and Tally were diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy, a life-changing disease.

In each of the places where the family lived - Cleveland, Anchorage, Scotland and suburban Chicago -- Tally volunteered for charities related to neuromuscular diseases and other disabilities. These included Alpine Alternatives in Anchorage, Linn Moor School in Scotland, and Misericordia in Chicago. The various programs, including snow skiing, bowling, horseback riding, pizza and holiday parties, brought great happiness to the participants and the volunteers.

In each location, Talia made lifelong friends with her neighbors, church friends, school parents, and fellow volunteers. She was known for her candor, sense of humor and interest in others.

Tally loved her family. Andrew and Wes gave her the greatest joy. She liked gardening, decorating and celebrating at Christmas, going out to dinner with family and friends and visiting a beach cottage in North Carolina. She especially enjoyed annual getaways with her parents and sisters.

Tally and Bob moved to Fountain Hills, Arizona in their later years to be closer to her family. Although requiring constant care and being largely housebound over the last five years, Tally remained good company to all. She supported Wounded Warriors and food banks.

Tally is survived by her husband, Bob, son Andrew and sister Teryl Klebba. She was predeceased by son Wesley, her parents, Ann and Robert Thompson, and sister Cindy Plasman.

Tally will be deeply missed.

Memorials may be sent to Misericordia in Chicago, IL. A service will be held at a future date at Misericordia.