Brenda Marie Hooper's Obituary
Brenda Marie Hooper (nee Claus) passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, at Amherst Manor Nursing Home. She was born on October 29, 1949, in Elyria, Ohio, to Robert Bernhardt Claus and Lois Jane (nee Struebe) Claus.
Brenda was a proud graduate of North Ridgeville High School, Class of 1967. She continued her education at the Licensed Practical Nursing School of Elyria, earning her nursing license in 1970. Brenda dedicated her career to caring for others, working at Elyria Memorial Hospital for 28 years before joining the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Lorain. She served in the Pediatric Unit for 12 years until her retirement in 2013. She was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 1662 of Amherst.
During her life, Brenda and her beloved husband, Charles Hooper, shared many wonderful adventures. They spent four years in Meridian, Mississippi, while Charles served in the United States Navy. Brenda enjoyed crafting ceramics during her time there. She also found joy in baking, cooking, and traveling with her husband, family, and friends. Their travels took them to the Caribbean, Las Vegas, and Alaska, where many wonderful memories were made. A devoted Cleveland Indians fan, she cherished the many games she attended with Charles over the years. Brenda was a resident of Amherst for 38 years, where she built a home filled with love and laughter.
Before being diagnosed with Alzheimer's, Brenda was full of life, radiating warmth, kindness, and a delightful sense of humor. Brenda and Charles shared a deep and beautiful bond—one built on love, respect, and mutual admiration. Their relationship was an inspiration to those around them, showing what a true partnership should look like.
Brenda is survived by her loving children, Michelle Hooper of Amherst and Jeffrey (Rebekah) Hooper of Smyrna, TN; her cherished grandchildren, Henry, Cade, and Danni Hooper; her brother, David Claus of Elyria; her sister, Linda Claus of Elyria; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 52 years, Charles Hooper, in 2023; her parents, Robert and Lois Claus; and her siblings, Richard Claus, Allan Claus, and Patricia Claus.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Mike Payne. Interment will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park.
The family welcomes online condolences at www.dovinreberjones.com.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest contributions be made in memory of Brenda to the Alzheimer’s Association, 23215 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 300, Beachwood, OH 44122.
Brenda’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and profession will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
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