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Robert Hooker Obituary

Robert J. Hooker Was born in Yuba City, CA in 1942. He was the second of four children of Ira and Waneta Hooker (both deceased). He leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Sharon; his son, Lance; his grandchildren, Myla and Lane. His surviving siblings are Ira Dan (Sammye) Hooker (CO), Marsha (John) Crowe (CA); and Anella Beattie (CA). Bob graduated from Sutter High School in CA and attended Chico State University, where he received his Bachelor's degree and met Sharon. He received his MA in 1967 from the University of California at Davis and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Arizona Law School in 1972. Bob and Sharon married in 1965. Bob had a passion for education and mentoring students. In 1968, he became dean of men at Cornell College, in Iowa, where Lance was born. He practiced, at the highest level, both civil and criminal defense law for over 30 years in Tucson. In 1980 Bob was appointed by Governor Bruce Babbitt to be a judge in the Pima County Superior Court, where he served for three years, before returning to private practice. In 2005, Bob took on what he described as his most important role, as head of the Pima County Public Defender's office. It was a position fit for a man of his background, experience, passion and sensitivity to the needs of the under-represented. Bob was always a champion of the underdog- a strong and eloquent advocate for the rights of individuals or groups in trouble. Bob the lawyer was also Bob the husband, Bob the father, Bob the grandfather, Bob the friend and colleague. He also leaves with us a legacy of love of family, love of justice, appreciation for nature and basketball, with strong sense of service to community. He is and will be greatly missed. Monday, April 7, 2008 at 11:30 a.m., a Celebration of Life and Remembrance will be held at the Music Hall, located at the Tucson Community Center, 260 S. Church Ave. Donations in Bob's memory may be mailed to the RE/MAX Majestic, 12112 N. Rancho Vistoso Blvd., #100, Oro Valley, AZ, 85737. If you choose this, please make checks payable to "Robert Hooker Scholarship Fund." Arrangements by BRING'S MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 236 South Scott Avenue.

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Published by Arizona Daily Star from Apr. 5 to Apr. 6, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Hooker

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Monica Trevino

June 9, 2008

Dearest Mrs. Hooker,
I am the parent of one of your SUNS students at Gallegos. When I initialy heard about this horrific accident on the news, I didnt realize this was your husband until just a few days ago and I am so very sorry for your loss. I never had the honor of meeting Mr. Hooker but my daughter says he had been to the school. She remembers him specifically because of his really "fancy suit" as she put it. I think you are one of the most incredible women I have ever met and are an inspiration to me and my daughter. We are just so devistated for your pain when you and your husband have brought your teachings, help, ispiration, love and respect to all our community. God Bless You and your family and we hope to see you back at Gallegos in the fall. You are in our prayers and thoughts always.

Scott and Holly Richardson

May 19, 2008

Dear Sharon and Lance,
I am just now hearing this tragic news, as my husband called and read it to me from the Arizona Bar Journal.
Although we have not seen in other in a long time, you may remember me as Lance's favorite :) babysitter during our days together at Cornell. I remember what a wonderful, loving family you were, and I hope that the memories you all made together with comfort and sustain you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please get in touch when you feel up to it.
Holly (Anderson) Richardson, Cornell Class of 1970

Tina Nobriga

April 14, 2008

Dear Sharon,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you at this sad time. Tina Anderson Nobriga

LUPITA AND DIANA SHESTKO

April 8, 2008

MR. HOOKER TOUCHED OUR LIVES IN A WAY THAT IT MADE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR LIVES. OUR CONDOLENCES TO HIS RELATIVES AND FRIENDS FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS.

Carol Vasquez

April 8, 2008

Sharon and Lance
The entire Vasquez family was devastated with the passing of our friend, Bob. What a Christ-follower Bob was! Both Eagle and Cooper were tremendously moved. Please know that we praying that God's grace and spiritual peace surround you, Lance, Myla and Lane. Please know also how very much we love you.

Lisa Sommer

April 8, 2008

Mrs. Hooker,
I knew your husband early and later in life. As one of your SUN students in the mid 80s I remember you telling us about his career as a judge. I could tell even at that age how in love you were with your husband. More recently, he was a regular lunchtime basketball player at the recreation center where I work. He always had a kind word and a smile for the staff before he put his "game face" on. On behalf of myself, my sister Pam (also a student of yours) and our family, we are so sorry for your loss.

Siobhan Lopez (Bahan)

April 8, 2008

Mrs. Hooker,

I am so very sorry for your loss. As a student in the SUN program years ago, I remember you talking about your husband and how proud you were of him. May the memories you have help you through this most difficult time.

Erick Martinez

April 8, 2008

Dr. Hooker,

My family sends you our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. You were always such an inspiration to those of us who had the pleasure of having you as our SUN coordinator.

Brenda Coefield

April 7, 2008

Sharon and Family,
I worked for Bob in 1980 at Hecker, Phillips & Hooker. He was a great inspiration to me and treated me as if I was the most important person in his firm, I will never forget what a kind and great man he was. Please know that I mourn for your loss as well as mine.

James and Jacqueline Dyer

April 7, 2008

Today I attended Robert Hookers memorial service at the Tucson Community Center Music Hall with my husband. As we listened to the great accomplishments ,some we knew of and some we were privileged to hear about for the first time today, I could not help but to think about how Mr. Hooker had also changed my life for the better. His approach to lifes challenges and his remarkable sense of community has not only changed my life but as we learned today he has changed the life of many. It was almost 20 years ago when I met Mr. Hooker in a crowded hallway at City Court here in Tucson. I was overwhelmed and left the courtroom to think about my delema and found myself crying for I had no clue what to do. Then I heard a gentle voice say," Can I help you, my name is Robert Hooker". He asked me to explain my situation but to be brief because I should not have left the courtroom. After I explained everything as briefly as possible, Mr.Hooker went back in to ask the judge for a continuance and was now representing me as my attorney. Mr. Hooker called all of the people involved in the dispute, asked them to all get along and to grow up. He gave young people a chance to admit they were wrong and to become better people in life. My delema was resolved without having to go to trial because of the manner in which Mr. Hooker handled legal issues. Since then he has remained a good friend who always returned a phone call offering friendly advice or a referral if necessary. The everlasting contributions and accomplishments Robert Hooker has made in his life to our community will be greatly respected by many. Thank you Robert Hooker and we will miss you so.

Don & Jan Cross

April 7, 2008

Dear Sharon & Lance:

We send our most heartfelt condolences to both of you. We were at the service today but had to leave before we could speak with you personally. What a fitting tribute for a "champion." May God be with you and grant you the peace that passes understanding.

Elsa Paredes

April 7, 2008

May your treasured memories bring solace during this time of loss.
With sympathy, Elsa Paredes (Gina's mom)

Dr. Roger Hartley

April 7, 2008

On behalf of the School of Public Administration and Policy at the University of Arizona, I wanted to express my deepest sympathies to you and your family in this time of terrible loss. Bob was a great friend to our Criminal Law and Policy Program with the law school. Many of our students interned in his office or went on to work for him and staff. He was a great public servant and our community is so much richer for having had him work for us.

My deepest sympathies to you.

Dannette Deister-Schultz

April 7, 2008

Sharon and Lance,
I just wanted to express to you my deepest sympathy in the loss of your beloved husband and father. I worked with Bob as a legal assistant when he was with Hecker, Phillips & Hooker from 1986 - 1991. I greatly admired him and his work ethic. When I first started working with Bob, I was only working on his civil cases. Later on, he asked me to work on some of his criminal cases. I told him that I didn't know if I could do that when I knew that our client was guilty. He told me, "everyone is entitled to a defense whether they are guilty or not. Our job is to make sure that they are convicted within their civil rights." I told him that I understood and he was right. I learned an incredible amount from his patient teachings.
When I lost my own husband and love of my life, he was there to support me through it. I always considered him my friend. He even sponsored my son last summer with the summer youth program at the Public Defenders Office.
Lance, I remember you mowing the lawn at the Rockwell Mansion for several summers when you were a teenager. Just remember how very proud of you your father was and how much he loved both you and your mother.
God Bless you and your family.

Sabra Houdek

April 7, 2008

Dr. Hooker,

I was one of your students over 25 years ago at Drexel and now my son is in the Sun program. I remember you telling us stories about your husband and the look in your eyes of how happy you were talking about him. You touched every student you taught just as your husband touched everyone he worked with. My best wishes to you and your son during this time. God bless you.
Sabra and Garrett Houdek

John & Linda Patrou

April 7, 2008

Sharon & Family

It is with much sadness that I write this deepest sympathies message. We were shocked about Bob’s recent untimely passing. His passing is such a tragedy for all of Tucson that he did so much for in his human life. He was such a special professional person and friend in so many ways. Our father Ernest Smith, Sr. had such admiration of him and his deeds while he was with us. On behalf of the entire Smith and Patrou families we pray for you in your grief. May God soften your burden in some way in knowing that the many lives’ Bob touched did make a difference.

May God wrap you in his love to comfort you and your family.

John and Linda Patrou
Glendale, AZ

Debra Hillary

April 7, 2008

To Sharon & Lance, Robert will be deeply missed by all who knew him. I met Robert through my late husband. Ironically Robert handled my divorce a few years later, when I was still a law student. He let me "work off" my legal fees by clerking for him. This was my first legal job. Always a gentleman and always an advocate. He was a great role model for me, as a lawyer and as a person.

Norman Reimer

April 7, 2008

On behalf of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the entire criminal defense community, we extend our deepest condolences to Bob's family. Our nation has lost a passionate spokesperson for justice. Bob's legacy is a standard for excellence and professionalism that will forever be an inspiration to all who knew him. Norman L. Reimer, Exec. Dir.

Michell Fredericks

April 6, 2008

Dr. Hooker,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I regret that I never met Robert, it is quite evident that he was a remarkable man. I didn't know we had an Iowa connection. Your Sunnyside family is here for you. God bless you all

Michell Fredericks

Kim Gray (Spencer)

April 6, 2008

Mrs. Hooker,

I had the pleasure of being your student in the SUN program many years ago. Your kindness and love for your students touched my heart deeply.

Although I didn't know your husband personally, I do remember you speaking to us about him throughout my years as your student. I understand he was a wonderful man.

I am so very sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathies.

With love,

Sheri & Alex Abernathey

April 6, 2008

My first thought after hearing the news was Lance's words to me just a couple of weeks ago, 'my dad's my best friend.'
It must have been so wonderful to have him in your life. I know he will live on forever in your hearts.

Marvin Schechter

April 6, 2008

To Sharon, Lance and the entire Hooker Family, our deepest condolences at the passing of this most remarkable human being. He lived his life following the Biblical commandment: Justice, justice shallt thou pursue throughtout the land."

Selma Smith

April 6, 2008

Sharon ,
we were so shocked to hear of Bob's death. though it has been many years since Harold and I had dinner with you and Bob, I was happy that you could take time out from your busy schedules to see us as we were traveling through Tucson. Remember that Bob's spirit lives through those he loved and those he touched. One only has to look at the comments of people signing this register to see how much he mattered in this world. We are sad for your loss and hope we can see you again soon. my thoughts and prayers are with you and I love you.
Your "girl scout" leader and friend, selma smith (Susanville, Ca.) Chris and Terry also send their love to you and your family.

Diana White

April 6, 2008

What a tragic loss to the Tuscon community. From reading the comments posted in this guest book, his legacy will continue to benefit the citizens.

Although Bob and I never met, we were related. His Pearson-Huston great-grandparents were brother and sister to my Pearson-Huston grandparents.

Please accept our heart-felt sympathy.

Diana Pearson White

KATHY TROST

April 5, 2008

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kimberly Economy (Krebbs)

April 5, 2008

Sharon,

My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I remember you introducing us to your husband, "The Judge", while in the SUN Program in school many years ago. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Michelle Perry

April 5, 2008

I send my condolences and wish Bob's family the best of luck in the future. This is a great loss that no one will recover from soon. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues. God bless.

ZaDean Auyer

April 5, 2008

We are saddened by Bob's untimely death. We send our prayers to his family. Bob and I were second cousins but it has been many years since last we met. ZaDean Pearson Auyer.

Marsha Mosley

April 5, 2008

Sharon, I was a volunteer at the Drexel Elementray when you were a teacher there and when you began the Sun Program for gifted students. I also help Mrs. Knepper in the nurses office and Mrs. Carmeron with the children whom need help with their reading. I worked on the System's 80 program that she had for children who had lost their comprehention. I was in great shock when I heard about Robert and started praying for you and your family. I hope that you find peace in the days,weeks and months to come. You have my dearest sympathy and heart felt wishes. You may not know my name as it appears, because it has changed since we last saw each other many,many years ago. I was known as Marsha Foster at the time and I volunteer at Drexel School with Cheryl Carpentier, and Bobbie Gayle.
LOVE, LIGHT, & LIFE.

Niki Swindle

April 5, 2008

Lance, may God be with you and your family during this hard time. Your dad will always be with you in everything you do.

Mary Ann Hutchison

April 5, 2008

Early on in his career as a Superior Court Judge, I had the privilege of working for Bob as an unassigned Courtroom Clerk. He was a remarkable man, as well as a remarkable judge.

His passing leaves a void where a great man once dwelled.

Monica Gaspari

April 5, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Hooker family. I remember Lance speaking of his Dad with so much love and admiration. I cannot even imagine the pain you all must be going through. I am so sorry this tragic accident has happend to such a wonderful and giving person. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Monica Gaspari

Gloria

April 5, 2008

A very kind man and a "GREAT" Attorney. Mr Hooker will greatly be missed and Tucson has lost one of its best

Deborah McCann

April 5, 2008

Sharon,

My sympathy and prayers to you and your family. Your loss is shared by everyone that knows you and knew Bob. I know my name may throw you, but you knew me as Debbie Overholt. Cassie, my daughter who you worked with in SUN sends her love to you.

Robert "Robbie" Gentry

April 5, 2008

Sharon - Lance and Family,
I was so sorry to hear the tragic news. Bob was a special, compassionate person who positively effected many lives. I am one of those. In the 70's, I was a 20 year old "drug kingpin" as the newspaper would indicate. Bob was more than my attorney. He provided me with guidance, a sense of reponsibility and obligation to myself and family. In addition he gave me some fatherly advice (as mine was deceased) that changed the course of my life. Today, I have a wonderful family, successful business, and commitment to the community. Because Bob was more than just an attorney - I am eternally indebted.
My heartfelt sympathy, along with my thoughts and prayers go out to you.
He was a champion and will be greatly missed.

Robbie Gentry
(a better person because of Bob)

Robert-Neoma Haskin

April 5, 2008

We are so sorry to hear of Bobs tragic death. Our prayers are with you and Lance and family.

Jim and Angela Bell

April 5, 2008

With great sadness and prayers for comfort for Sharon and the family, we extend our heartfelt sympathy.

PATRICK THORPE

April 5, 2008

Bob represented me in a civil case when he was Larry's partner. Wow what an Attorney! I sought him out when I needed addtional help in a civil matter, but he had already moved on to his own practice in the criminal arena. The world is going to miss you old freind. God be with you and may your family find strength in your legacy. Patrick Thorpe

Dawn August

April 5, 2008

Dear Hooker Family

I am Dawn August Ruth August daughter, I am so sorry for your loss.I am thinking of you and your family. Godspeed

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