Dennis Orville Hooker, 90, of Maryville, IL, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, December 12, 2025. He was born on September 23, 1935, in Gilman, IL, to Orville and Alice (née Normandin) Hooker.

Dennis was a 1953 graduate of Gilman High School. He honorably served his country in the United States Navy before beginning a long and dedicated career with the railroad, where he retired as a shipyard supervisor.

A man of deep faith, Dennis was a member of Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Maryville. He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams. Dennis loved animals and greatly enjoyed traveling with his wife, whether camping close to home or taking memorable trips to Nova Scotia. He also found joy in fishing, boating, and golfing. Above all else, his favorite pastime was being of service to his family, whom he loved dearly.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Alice Hooker; his beloved wife, Verla (née Pruitt) Hooker, whom he married on February 17, 1962, and who passed away on July 11, 2021; his brother, David Hooker; his sister, Mary Barris; and his sister-in-law, Gwyn Hooker.

He is survived by his two sons, Timothy (Laura) Hooker of Mt. Sterling, OH and Stephen Hooker of Cherokee Village, AR; three daughters, Carleen (Daniel) Pitkin of Highland, IL, Maureen (Steve) Lane of Collinsville, IL, and Kimberly Haddix of Indianapolis, IN; 16 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; four sisters, Julie (Ray) Flores, Patricia Ryan, Deborah (Gary Kusmierczak) Boylan, and Kristi (John) Haley; his brother-in-law, John Neal; his step-sister, Bonita; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In accordance with his wishes, Dennis will be cremated, and no public services will be held. Memorials may be made in his honor to Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church or charity of choice. Contributions will be received at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.