Norman Hook

Norman "Norm" J. Hook

Norman J. Hook, 75, of Coal City, was called home on June 18, 2010 after a short battle with (AML) Leukemia.

Born October 21, 1934, in Galion, Ohio, to Paul and Mildred (Kempf) Hook (deceased). Norm was the eldest of six children: Marilyn (deceased in infancy), Bernadette (Arnold) Eusebio, Sr. Kathleen, Madonna Holloway, Rosanne (Tom) Vogen.

Norm graduated from Galion High School in Galion, Ohio in 1952. After high school Norm worked several years, then attended Quincy College, eventually graduated from Ohio Northern University in 1961 with a degree in Pharmacy.

Norm worked at several pharmacies and eventually purchased Jachino's Drug Store in Coal City in 1964, which he operated until 1971. While working at Jachino's Drug Store, Norm fell in love with Marilyn Bono and married her on June 17, 1967. Together they not only built a family (Melissa 1968, Marla 1970, Matthew 1973), but in October 1971, they built and opened Norm's Pharmacy at 85 S. Broadway. Norm's family spent many hours and precious moments working together at the family pharmacy.

In 1984, Norm and Marilyn sold the pharmacy business to Doc's Drugs. Norm continued to work for Doc's Drugs and Hook's Pharmacy until he retired in 1996.

Over the years, Norm was extremely active in the Assumption Catholic Church as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and Parish Council Member. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus as a 4th Degree Knight.

At home, Norm enjoyed puttering in his back yard garage and playing golf with his senior buddies. He often was found helping his children with little projects and assisting other family members as needed. Norm was an expert angel food cake baker.

Norman is survivied by his wife, Marilyn (Bono) Hook of 43 years, his three children, Missie (Mike) Rolinitis of Kankakee, Marla (Tim) O'Keefe, and Matthew (Tricia) Hook, and five grandchildren (with Baby Hook due in September): Nolan O'Keefe, Olivia O'Keefe (deceased), Shaela O'Keefe, Fionna Hook, and Arwen Rolinitis.

Norm was a quiet, gentle man and will be sadly missed by all those who loved him.

Preferred memorials can be made as a gift to Assumption Catholic Church Building fund or the donor's choice.

Visitation will be held on Monday June 21, 2010 between the hours of 4:00PM and 8:00PM at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway (one block North of Illinois Route 113) in Coal City. Funeral services will follow Tuesday June 22, 2010 at 10:00AM in Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church, 245 South Kankakee Street in Coal City - where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Reverend Robert Noesen officiating.

Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Braidwood.

Friends may sign the online guest book or send private condolences to the family by logging onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Coal City. (815/634-2125)