David Nelson Van Hooser

David Nelson Van Hooser, 80, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born February 10, 1945, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, he was raised by Chancey Arley Van Hooser and Florence Trusty Van Hooser. David lived a full and meaningful life marked by love, service, and accomplishment.

As a young man, David's dedication to Boy Scouts led him to achieve the prestigious Eagle Scout rank and to become a distinguished member of the Mic-O-Say program. He later served in the United States Coast Guard, where his quiet strength and steady leadership shone through. During Basic Training, he was the recipient of the Honorary Man Award, a reflection of the respect he earned from those around him.

David also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Central Missouri. While there, he was an active member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity and continued his lifelong love of running as a member of the university’s Cross Country Team. He went on to hold many roles throughout his professional life, leaving a lasting mark through his dedication and care for the people he worked with. Most notably, he directed the Golden Door Program at Coors, where his work earned him the President’s Award in recognition of his accomplishments.

Family was always at the center of David’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Kay Van Hooser; his children, Zach Madden Van Hooser (sp. Chad Christensen) and Kyra Autumn Hooper (sp. Chris Hooper); and his grandchildren, Chancey Jaxon Hooper and Jacoby Johnson Hooper, who were the light of his later years. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Cordell and was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Koontz.

David will be remembered for his mischievous spirit, uncanny knowledge of random facts, and deep love for running, music & cars. His legacy is carried forward in the love of his family, and in the stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made, in David’s memory, to a foundation dedicated to heart health and research. Please consider donating to American Heart Association.