Ronald Eugene "Hoop" Hooper

Ronald Eugene Hooper, affectionately known as "Hoop," was born on January 1, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio. He passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024, in Biloxi, Mississippi, leaving behind a legacy of service and love. Ronald dedicated over four decades of his life to the U.S. Forest Service, where he served diligently for 41 years. His role took him across various states, including Utah, Wisconsin and California, ultimately leading to his retirement in Washington, D.C. Following his retirement, he and Vickie lived in Phoenix, Arizona. After a brief retirement, he took on the role of CEO at Neptune Aviation in Montana, where he continued to make significant contributions to his field. Following retirement from Neptune, he and Vickie have been residents of the MS Gulf Coast for the past few years.

Throughout his life, Ronald was known for his passion for helping others. He cherished the opportunity to be of service to his family and friends, often offering support and assistance whenever it was needed. He took immense pleasure in traveling with his wife and friends, Alec and Loraine Watson, experiences that enriched his life and created lasting memories.

An avid Nascar enthusiast, Ronald enjoyed attending races and relishing the thrill they brought. His affinity for the ocean led him to find joy at the beach, where he would often spend time enjoying nature and the serenity it provided.

Ronald is survived by his devoted wife, Vickie M. Hooper, with whom he shared his life and adventures. He is also survived by six children: Stacey Herrin and her husband Garland, Scott Hooper and his wife Rushele, James Love and his wife Donna, Sabrina Amyx and her husband Paul, Ryan Hooper and his wife Kristal, and Sarah Johnson and her husband Eric. Ronald's legacy continues with his 19 grandchildren—Bryce, Joshua, Ryan, Raegan, Sophia, Elysse, Talyn, Kayla, Kyle, Dustin, Porchia, Kristian, Kaden, Ryker, Addison, Brynlee, Remi, Jordan, and Zoe—and 13 great-grandchildren—Karson, Bennett, Jeremiah, Parker, Myles, Kasen, Arabella, Dakota, Jaden, Skyler, Gabbie, Alex, and Millie. Additionally, he is survived by his siblings, Sharon Baars and Patricia Lucero, and his beloved toy golden doodles, Sadie and Lula. From across his travels, especially in Montana, Ronald leaves behind numerous friends and family, lovingly referred to as "Framily."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Katherine Hooper; his brother, Roger Hooper; his granddaughter, Hanah Dillard; his father-in-law, A.J. Mazingo; his mother-in-law, Patricia Mazingo; and his brother-in-law, William Baars.

Ronald Eugene Hooper's life was marked by devotion, adventure, and a deep love for his family and friends. He will be remembered for his unwavering spirit and the joy he brought to those who knew him. The family will be planning a Celebration of Life Gathering to be held at a later date.  Once finalized, those details will be posted here. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the following:

National Museum of Forest Service History, 1615 S Catlin St., Missoula, MT DONATE

Watsons Children’s Shelter of Missoula, MT DONATE

SilverLining Foundation of Montana DONATE

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.  Please sign the online guestbook and share memories & photos at www.riemannfamily.com