Melvalene Hoover

Melvalene Catledge was born in Sacramento CA, in February 1947 to Melvin and Symbolene Catledge.

Melvalene’s childhood was spent in Oklahoma and Texas where her father studied Dental medicine, earning a Doctorate in Dental Surgery, and in 1956, moved the family to Walnut Creek, California, where Melvin Catledge started a Dental practice. Melvalene completed high school, graduating from Los Lomas High in June 1964. It was during this time she met the love of her life, Randall Hoover and they were married in the fall of 1964. Melvalene went to work for Pacific Bell and the family later grew to include two children, Randall Hoover II and Kelly Hoover. After the kids moved out of the house Melvalene returned to the work force and with strong organizational and managerial skills had taken administration positions within the construction industry. Later in her career, she returned to School and earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree from Diablo Valley College in Northern California graduating with honors. As Melvalene’s husband’s career grew, they traveled extensively to various industrial construction projects within the United States and the world to include Canada, Czech Republic, and Okinawa Japan.

Melvalene, with a deeply rooted Christian Faith, was a kind and loving wife, strong and caring mother, and a loyal friend to those who were blessed to have known her. She was talented and had a keen eye for color and perspective as demonstrated in her oil based paintings she had crafted over many years. She always had a sparkle in her eye and a good word for those she encountered. Those closest to her will fondly remember her as someone who approached every aspect of life gracefully, effortlessly balancing her academic pursuits with her role as a dedicated family member. Her innate ability to always know the right thing to say left an indelible mark on the hearts of her loved ones. Family gatherings, especially during the holidays, held a special place in Melvalene’s heart. Melvalene bestowed precious, thoughtful gifts to her family, making everyone feel special. During the gatherings, the family played board games and cards, activities that held a cherished memory. Her legacy lives on through the warmth and love she shared with those close to her. She was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star through the Women of Freemasonry; alongside Randy, they found fulfillment in the Masonic activities.

Melvalene is survived by her cherished husband of 59 years, Randy. She leaves behind her devoted children, Randall (Cyndi) Hoover and Kelly Hoover, as well as grandchildren Nicole (Ryan) Rueda, Christian (Corine) Thomas, Denise Thomas, Davia Hoover, and James Hoover. Her great-grandchildren, Ronan and Fiona Rueda, all brought immense joy to her life. Melvalene is also survived by her sister, Renee Kautch, and a brother-in-law, Claude (Lanell) Hoover.

Contributions in Melvalene’s name may be made to the Humane Society of Missouri, 1201 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110. https://hsmo.org or Stray Rescue of St. Louis, 2320 Pine St. St. Louis, MO 63103. https://www.strayrescue.org

A visitation for Melvalene will be held on Monday, January 22, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Alexander White Mullen Funeral Home, 11101 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Ann, MO., 63074, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM at the same location. Melvalene will be laid to rest at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, St. Ann, MO.

Fond memories of Melvalene may be shared with the Hoover family by visiting our website at www.alexanderstlouis.com.