Gary W. Hoops

Gary Wesly Hoops passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 17, 2026.

Gary was born October 25,1946, in Creston, Iowa to the late Pauline (Armstrong) and Merle Hoops.

Gary grew up in a loving home as he was raised by his grandparents who owned a nursing home.

He went to Bedford High School where he was a proud graduate of class of 1965. He loved sports and enjoyed playing baseball, basketball, and football for the beloved Bedford Bulldogs. At Bedford High, he met some of his best friends that remained his closest friends after 60 years. Annually they would travel to different states to stay at the host home enjoying golf, poker and catch up on life.

Gary signed up to serve in the Army at the age of 21. He was proud to serve 2 years as Sergeant in the Vietnam War.

Gary started working at J.C. Penney Department Store on July 11, 1969. His 36-year career took him to Tampa, St. Pete, Plantation, Gainesville (GA), Lafayette (LA) and retired back in Florida in Leesburg.

He married the love of his life, Kris, on April 30, 1976.

Gary always had a passion for golf. He eventually taught his wife and would often say that it was the best thing they did as a couple. They both enjoyed time out on the golf course and eventually bought their retirement home in a golfing community.

He also worked for Palmer Legends Golf Course for 18 years as an ambassador.

Gary enjoyed taking long motorcycle trips including Sturgis as well as the Four Corners reaching all 48 states in 19 days. Gary also loved vacations at St. Augustine with family and friends, playing poker, smoking cigars and enjoying his pool.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Kristine Hoops; his sons, Derek (Tammy) and Kyle (Belinda); Grandchildren, Megan (Mark) Stevens, Ashley Rabuck, Jenna (Hunter) DeBerardino, Sarah Rabuck, Nicole Rabuck, Sophia Marasso, Eric Rabuck; Great Grandchildren, Izzy and Enzo Bhowanidin, Sister, Kim (Ron) Weedle, and Sister-in-law Marilyn Hoops (wife of his late brother Leroy Hoops) and preceded by death Delores Akers and beloved nephews, nieces and cousins.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked for donations to Cornerstone Hospice of The Villages.