Robert Wade "Hoop" Hooper

After a robust life of living to its fullest, Robert Wade “Hoop” Hooper went to his “Margaritaville In The Sky” on Friday, March 17. A 30-year resident of Crystal Beach, Hoop was born in St. Petersburg on November 19, 1960 to the late William W. “Bill” Hooper and Wyolene Hooper, the youngest of three children.

After growing up in St. Petersburg, Hoop became a proud Sponger, graduating from Tarpon Springs High School in 1978. During his time there, he played catcher for the school’s baseball team and was a member of the championship winning TSHS Bowling Team.

Following graduation, he joined the family business Pinellas Pools, was promoted to Vice President and worked there throughout his adult life. Wade grew to become a leader and a well-respected contractor in the commercial swimming pool industry. He was a member of the National Swimming Pool Foundation, where he participated in events throughout the Southeast.

Hoop was a “Proud Parrothead” and an avid outdoorsman. He spent his life in and around salt water: whether fishing in the Gulf or off the coast of Costa Rica, lobstering in the Keys or travelling to South America and the Caribbean to participate in fishing tournaments. Naturally, he kept up with his “aquatic” sports teams: the Miami Dolphins and the Florida Gators. On land, he enjoying going to the hunting camp with his dad, his brother, nephews and friends. He was a passionate fan of Dale Earnhardt and his #3 car, and enjoyed following the DEI team in the NASCAR Racing Circuit. He also followed in his father’s “fraternal footsteps” by becoming a 32° Master Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite and a Shriner.

Hoop is survived by his mother Wyolene, his sister Sheila (Alec) Hooper Neisler, his brother William Woodrow (Woody) Hooper, Jr., a niece, Julie Jo Anne Neisler, nephews William Woodrow (Billy) Hooper, III, and his wife Ashlee, and Wade Anthony Hooper, and one great-niece Audra Suzanne Hooper. Wade was also grateful for the friendship, love, laughter and support from his former sister-in-law Paulette Hooper.

His heart was as big as the waters he navigated. While Hoop was a son, brother and uncle in his immediate family, he was considered everyone’s favorite adopted big brother, uncle and even surrogate father, especially to Johnny, Jackie, Robbie, George and Tara. His generosity, selflessness and thoughtfulness knew no bounds. He will be deeply missed.

The family will gather to welcome friends on Sunday, March 26 from 1:00 - 2:00 PM, followed by a service and graveside burial at Meadowlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens (www.NorthMeadowlawnFuneral.com) at 4244 Madison Street, New Port Richey, Florida, 34652. Immediately following the service, family and friends will offer a final toast to Hoop at a reception at Harbor Hall, 1190 Georgia Avenue, Palm Harbor, FL 34683.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Shriner’s Children Hospital – Tampa, 12502 USF Pine Drive, Tampa, FL 33612.