SMSgt. Norman Gene VanHook, USAF (Ret.)

A Korean and Vietnam War veteran, SMSgt. Norman Gene VanHook, USAF (Ret.), 91, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

Born in Montezuma, Indiana, on January 18, 1933, Norman was the son of the late Harry and Maude Kennedy VanHook. After graduating high school, Norman proudly served in the United States Air Force for 22 years. He was stationed all over the United States, from the East Coast to the West Coast, and abroad in Japan, Scotland, Korea, and Vietnam. He retired with the rank of Senior Master Sergeant in 1973, after earning multiple ribbons and medals to include the Bronze Star in Vietnam. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Norman pursued a career in real estate. Years later, he retired as a real estate broker and moved to Leesburg, Florida, in 2008.

Never meeting a stranger, Norman cherished his friends and loved being around others. He always filled the room with laughter, and everyone felt comfortable in his presence. Norman also loved the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, camping, and woodworking.

In addition to his parents, Norman was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Bass VanHook, and son, Dennis Gene VanHook.

Norman is survived by his son, Kevin VanHook (Donna) of Milton, Georgia; grandchildren, Megan, Erica, and Blake VanHook; great-grandchildren, Ian, Dylan, and Payton VanHook; as well as sisters, Marilyn Sue Randle, and Judith Ann Massey.

Norman will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and laughter that will be remembered fondly by those whose lives he touched.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Magnolia Park Cemetery, where SMSgt. Norman Gene VanHook, USAF (Ret.) will be laid to rest next to his wife, Ann, and son, Dennis.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of SMSgt. Norman Gene VanHook, USAF (Ret.) to the Disabled American Veterans Foundation, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, Ohio 45250-030.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.