Ernest Wayne Hook

HOOK, Ernest Wayne
Of Kalamazoo Ernie completed his life of service on September 18, 2011 after being a resident at Wyndham Apartments, Amber Place and Upjohn Community Care Center. He was born September 7, 1920 in Odessa, MO to Omar Hook and Virgie Null Hook. His only sibling was Louise Harrison. Ernie married Dorothy Ellen Cook on July 27, 1947 and they became parents of Wendy Arnold David, David Hook Kim, and Dr. Molly Spicuzza, DVM. The six grandchildren are Eric Hook Tara, Adrienne Hook, Jeremy Hook, Christopher Hook, Melissa Newton Michael, and Hannah Spicuzza. Great grandchildren are Mason Hook, Logan Hook and Maya Newton. He was preceded in death by his sister Louise and his daughter Molly. During a 50 year span of service at First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo, Ernie taught a young adult class, attended Pathfinders class, served for many years as host at coffee hour between services, and also led a team of soup-makers for Ministry with Community. Ernie served Blue and Gold Banquets for Boy Scouts, and prepared dinner for family and friends at a moment's notice. The Navy called in 1942 and Ernie became a supply officer on the U.S.S. General S.D. Sturgis, a troop transport which was based mostly in the Pacific. Returning home to Kansas City after the war, he continued to court Dotty Cook, who he had met at the beginning of his enlistment, and they were married after completing college. He then began his career of 38 years with Liberty Mutual Insurance Company as a claims man, serving numerous clients and compiling countless stories of his adventures. After retirement, he joined a law firm in Kalamazoo teaching them the "law according to Hook." Over the years, Ernie and Dotty made many friends while square dancing and playing bridge. Playing cards was a skill he maintained to his last days, even with the severe disabilities of Alzheimer's Disease. He also attended numerous Elder-Hostels, writing limericks for the final dinner about each person in attendance. Ernie was cremated in accordance with his wishes. Friends may meet the family Wednesday evening from 6-8pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 o'clock Thursday at the First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo, 212 S. Park St. with Rev. John Boley and Rev. Douglas Vernon officiating. Private interment of cremains will be in the church columbarium. Memorials may be directed to the SLD Center or the First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo. www.langelands.com