Norma Ann Hoover

Norma was born August 9, 1935 in Jefferson City, MO to Von and Mabel Tharp. She graduated from Ball State University with a degree in physical education and business. She went on to get her Masters degree in Elementary Education from University of Arizona. She married Rolland “Pug” Hoover on July 20, 1957, and raised two daughters, Diane and Kathy. The family traveled the world while Pug was serving in the United States Air Force. They settled in Grants Pass, OR in 1978.

Norma taught school at both the Williams School and Fleming Middle School. In 1990, she was nominated for the Who’s Who Among American Teachers by one of her students. Norma retired from teaching on July 1, 1997. She enjoyed reading while walking on her treadmill, yoga, gardening, playing bridge and travel. Her brother “Bud” and his wife Caroline were favorite travel companions.

Norma is survived by her brother, “Bud” Tharp and his wife Caroline of Roaming Shores, Ohio; husband of 65 years “Pug” Hoover; daughters Diane Hoover, and husband Jim Sweeney of Grants Pass, Oregon and Kathy Sexauer and husband Jim of Mountain Home, Idaho; and grandsons, Jared, Colin, Cameron, and Brent.