Dana Lee Hooker

Dana was born on February 11, 1964 to David Lee Hooker and Mary Jeanice Gamel. Dana attended elementary and high school in Merced, California. Dana, affectionately known as Hook, was a naturally curious person especially in his youth. Dana enjoyed taking things apart just to see if he could put them together again. He spent countless hours reinventing the possibilities for everyday items, giving new life and

practicality to objects that others overlooked. Dana became a skilled mechanic and his career spanned more than 40 years.

Among friends and loved ones Dana enjoyed expressing his unique sense of humor and personal beliefs. He was a daredevil and a maverick. Dana loved nature, fishing, camping, and rocking out to various genres of music. Dana spent time outdoors as much as possible and he loved to ride dirt bikes. There wasn’t a mountain he wouldn’t dare to climb. He was passionate about holistic healing and health care. Dana acknowledged and spoke up for people who he felt were underserved. He valued freedom, kindness, and generosity.

Dana was preceded in death by his father David Lee Hooker and is survived by his mother, Mary Gamel; sisters Holly Datray (Darren) and Mallory Escarcega; nephews Nicholas Datray and Nathan Datray;

niece Sadie Datray, as well as several uncles, aunts, and cousins. Everyone who met and knew Dana witnessed his genuine heart and giving nature. He will be greatly missed by all.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 1 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery.