Roderick William Hooper

Roderick William Hooper (“Hoop”) passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 16, 2026, at his home in Stanwood, Washington.

Rod was born on October 29, 1949, to Billy J. Hooper and Eileen Lucille Idie. The oldest of three children, he was raised in West Seattle with his siblings, Marty and Karen. From an early age, Rod gravitated toward sports, a passion that carried him through his years at West Seattle High School, where he lettered in baseball, basketball, and football before graduating in 1967. Rod remained a devoted Seattle sports fan throughout his life, especially for his Mariners and Seahawks, always convinced that “this is our year.”

Rod spent his career in the trucking and transportation industry, delivering Coca-Cola, hauling corn for Twin City Foods, and later working for Island County Community Transit. Along the way, he formed lasting friendships, whether spending time with coworkers in Lake Chelan or cheering on the AquaSox with his grandchildren at company picnics.

Known affectionately as “Popo,” Rod was a devoted grandfather who took great joy in supporting his grandchildren in all their endeavors. He found happiness in fishing, campfires, classic rock, crime novels, and a good game of cribbage. He never turned down a home-cooked meal, especially if it was served alongside a cold can of Coke.

Missing him deeply are his daughters, Michelle Besagno and her husband Jake, and Kelly Burdette and her partner Tony; his grandchildren, Nikolas, Benjamin, Danielle, and Hazel; and his nephew, Justin Worthen, along with many extended family members and friends. Rod was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Eileen, and his siblings, Marty and Karen.

A Celebration of Rod’s Life will be held on July 29, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Salty’s on Alki. Family and friends are invited to join in sharing stories, laughter, and memories of a life well lived.