Bradley Hoot

I was born on St. Patrick’s Day in 1942 and have always had the luck of the Irish. I had a loving supportive family which includes my parents, Don and Leona and my brother, Howard. The smartest thing I ever did was marry Cathy—my soulmate and love of my life for over 50 years.

I got a good education at Michigan State University, served two years in the 101st Airborne Division and had a rewarding career as a Civil Engineer. I had lots of golfing buddies and good friends like Pam and Darrin. I even got to revive my guitar picking and singing with a neighborhood group formed by a bunch of us old guys. We call ourselves “The Elderly Brothers” and had begun creating some original songs. For all these things I’m very thankful.

To anyone I treated thoughtlessly or indifferently, I apologize. I was foolish to do so and I’ll do better next time.

Though I wrote this poem, “Fair Autumn, Your Hand is Warm” when I was young, it seems worth sharing as my final thoughts.

Now ebbs my light of day

Fierce winter calls my name

From within his craggy lair

And comes soon to claim dominion

Where once I chased my youth among the sunflowers

And hid from time.

Sylvan Enchantress, your hand is warm.

Take me into your leafy convent

And let me while away thought-full hours

Beneath a waning sun, wrapped in the

Embrace of your knowing smile.

And when, some frosty morn,

You wake and find I’m gone

Remember one who paused

Near the edge of final escape

To drink from your sweet well

And touch your warm hand.

Cathy will be holding a visitation at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, 9090 Hwy. 100, Nashville, TN on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 1 p.m. until the service time of 3:00 p.m. All my friends and family are invited to attend, tell wonderful stories, and visit with one another.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, I would like for you to make a donation in remembrance of me to the Michigan State University Foundation and the good work in vital areas being done by Michigan State University, my alma mater:

https://give.msu.edu/?smid=a300

Michigan State University  University Advancement

Spartan Way  535 Chestnut Road, Room 300

East Lansing, MI 48824

517-884-1000 phone,  800-232-4678 toll free