Norma Jean Hooker

Norma Jean Hooker passed away on June 24, 2020, of natural causes at the age of 87. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at First United Methodist Church. Norma was born in Yuma, CO on June 24, 1933, the fourth of six children, born to T.C. and Loretta Bivens. The family moved to Power, MT when she was two-years old during the Great Depression. She was always proud of her parent's hard work with many wonderful memories living in the Power community. Mom was a talented artist. She learned to play the piano by ear and would often play for her church when she was five-years old. If she forgot a tune, she would have someone sing it to her and then run back and play it. She worked as a nurse’s aide when she met the love of her life, William “Bill” Harrison Hooker Jr. They married and eventually moved to Sun River, MT where we had a wonderful life. Unfortunately, we lost our father and mom was widowed with five children at 32. A strong and resourceful woman, we never went without. Mom was a wonderful cook and loved to entertain. She had a knack for making something out of nothing. She loved Christmas, always making it a memorable holiday. Our trips to Flathead Lake every summer with the Peressini clan were so much fun! Mom loved her home and was so proud that she was able to build and provide that home for her children. She was an active member of many organizations, including her sorority, Epsilon Sigma Alpha, Sewing Club, water aerobics, and the infamous "Do Nothing Club". Unfortunately, Mom developed rheumatoid arthritis in her 40's. She persevered and never let it control her active lifestyle. She adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To the end she maintained her wit and always had a smile, never missing a chance to say, "I love you." Mom was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; parents; siblings, Ruth Fertterer, Evadene Fillmore, Merle Bivens, and Beth Miller; and grandson, Adam Riehl. She is survived by her sister, Judy (Bill) Broere; children, Janice Noraker, Julie Bryant, Allyson (Rich) Gallagher, Leslie Hooker, and Loren (Kris) Hooker; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. A special thanks to her wonderful neighbors, including Maria and Ron Meyers, and to the Beehive caretakers. Donations in Norma's name may be made to the Arthritis Foundation (https://www.arthritis.org/donate).