Velda Hoker

Velda Hoker, age 83, of Charleston, IL (formerly of Orland Park, IL) passed away peacefully in her home at 9:45 a.m. on Thursday, February 29, 2024. She was born July 14, 1940, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Edward and Mina (Redvikus) Tomasewski. On October 8, 1960, she married James Carl Hoker in Chicago, IL.

She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Jim Hoker of Oaklawn, IL; children, James Edward Hoker; Toby Hilgenberg (Jim), Dawn Morey (Rick), and Andrew Hoker; grandchildren, Paul Hilgenberg (Jocelyn), Lena Cummings (Joshua), Mina Fairchild (Blake), Lydia Hilgenberg, Wyatt Morey, JackLynn Morey, Payton Hoker, Ethan Hoker, Collin Hoker, and Nolan Hoker; six great-grandchildren; brothers, Wayne Tomasewski (Rita) and Paul Tomasewski; and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents.    

Velda was a 1958 graduate of Gage Park High School in Chicago, IL. She furthered her education by receiving an Culinary Arts and Public Health in Food Preparation Certificate from the University of Illinois. Velda was a loving homemaker, raising her children and looking after her husband throughout the years. She also previously worked at Hammond Lane.

Velda was a faithful member St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Mattoon, IL. She actively participated in Quilts Etc. and was a member of the Home Extension Association. She also enjoyed bowling for several years with the Charleston Bowling League. Velda cherished the art of quilting and creating delicious meals. She treasured moments spent with her family and radiated warmth and kindness as a cherished friend to many.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church with Reverend Dan Ulrich officiating. Burial will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston, IL. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 8975 E. Co. Rd. 1200 N., Mattoon, IL 61920.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children in St. Louis, 2900 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607.    

To view the full obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle, or post photos, please visit www.adamsfuneralchapel.com. Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL is in charge of the arrangements.

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