Obituary: Hugh W. Van Hooser Sr.

Hugh W. Van Hooser Sr., a long-time area resident, passed on Friday, September 25, 2009. He was born April 16, 1935, in Gallup, N.M. to John W. and Clara Van Hooser. In his youth, Hugh's family moved to North Lake Tahoe where they lived for two years in a canvas Army tent while building their home. A graduate of Truckee-North Tahoe High School and a Golden Gloves Youth Boxing Champion, Hugh served in the U.S. Navy during the late 1950s. After serving, he had a long-time gaming career at various casinos in Crystal Bay, Reno and Carson City.

Hugh loved fishing, camping and hunting and his favorite spots were Frenchman's Lake and Indian Creek Reservoir. An accomplished carpenter, Hugh took great pride in designing and building various structures. Western movies and novels, MacGyver and honky-tonk tunes were his favorite forms of entertainment. Halloween was Hugh's favorite holiday and he loved the spirit of Christmas.

Preceding Hugh are his parents, sister Joann, and daughter Kathryn. He is survived by brothers Jack (Lynn) of Idaho and Donald (Diana) of Oregon; wife Marianne "Candy;" daughter and grandson Cheryl and Randy,; daughter, son-in-law and grandson Marianne, Eric and Alex; son Hugh Jr. and many nieces and nephews.

Hugh was attended to by Autumn Funerals & Cremation, Carson City. A private service will be held for his family. If you knew Hugh, you truly know the best way to remember him.