YULEE, Fla., and STRONG Thomas Hooke, 68, passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2008, in Fernandina Beach, Fla. Mr. Hooke was born July 19, 1939, in Wells. He earned his Bachelor’s of Art at the University of Maine – Gorham. He taught high school industrial arts for 12 years. At Orono he taught students to build 17 canoes on White forms and invited every student on a hunt. He made many contributions to the local Rangeley area. For example, he created the first high school cooperative work-study program in Maine. He did much to teach on an individual basis whenever a child was in need. Mr. Hooke married Carmen DeRaps, July 1965. He was compelled to pursue his true passion: building a guide service. He was a renowned guide. Customers came from Europe, Asia, Australia, South America and throughout North America in order to hunt with him. A man of steadfast integrity and great sense of humor, he held a high regard for his and his wife’s Indian heritage, and tradition of their forefathers. He and his wife created Indian crafts with natural and cultural elements. They traveled to Indian festivals where they displayed their skills. He forged many friendships with like-minded individuals, and will be missed by many who share his love of nature and way of life. He and his wife settled in Yulee, Fla. He worked as an accomplished stonemason, carpenter and craftsman, who was known for his attention to detail. He was predeceased by his parents; and a son, Steven Francis Hooke. He leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Carmen; his son, Peter Hooke and wife, Sarah; brothers, Richard and Fran Hooke; sisters, Linda Schroeder and Jane VanZant; five grandchildren, Sterling, Hillary, Grace, Steven and Hannah; daughter-in-law, Beth Hooke; many nieces and nephews. A celebration of his life was held May 12 in Florida, led by General Grant of the Cherokee nation. Memorial services will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at United Methodist Church, Kingfield.
THOMAS PHILLIIP HOOKE
