Carolyn Faye Hoover 1946-2004

Carolyn Faye Hoover
Fairbanks resident Carolyn Faye Hoover, 57, died Saturday, Aug. 21, 2004, at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle. She had been receiving treatment for leukemia since November 2002 and had undergone a stem cell transplant in May 2004.

Carolyn was born on Dec. 31, 1946, in San Francisco to Grove William and Augusta Faye Hoover. She graduated from Humbolt State University with a degree in physical education and dance. She went on to earn master's and doctoral degrees in health education from the University of Oregon. Carolyn taught high school in Chester, Calif., and at The College of the Redwoods in Arcata, Calif. In need of a change in attitude and latitude, Carolyn moved to Fairbanks in 1981 to become the curriculum director for health education for the school district. She then taught writing at North Pole Middle School for several years. Carolyn taught drama, physical education, health, and writing at Lathrop High School for many years. She coached gymnastics and the debate, drama, and forensics team. She directed many plays and musicals, infecting students with her love of all aspects of the theater. At the time of her death, Carolyn was employed as a grant writer for the Yukon-Koyukuk School District. This job allowed her to travel to the village communities and work with students in small groups. Memories of these trips were often shared with her caregivers during her illness. Carolyn was also very active in the Fairbanks theater community. She was past president of the Fairbanks Drama Association. Carolyn was known for her directing, lighting, and choreography talents. On every set, whether at the high school or community level, the audiences enjoyed finding the hidden images of Elvis and a flamingo that were her trademarks. Carolyn is survived by her brother and sister-in law, Grove W. Hoover II and Sandy Samora of Millbrae, Calif.; niece Kelli Barkett of San Fransisco; foster son Jake Nelson of Seattle; and her beloved cat Spookie. She also leaves behind many friends, colleagues, and hundreds of former students.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., on Saturday, Sept. 4, at University Community Presbyterian Church, 3510 College Road. The Rev. Murray Richmond will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fairbanks Drama Association, 1852 Second Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99701, or the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, P.O. Box 19024, Seattle, WA 98109-1024.

Later this fall, Carolyn's cremains will be scattered by her family and close friends Carl and Jill Addington in Deception Pass, Wash., a favorite, peaceful respite from the world of illness and hospitals.
Arrangements were by People's Memorial and Bleitz Funeral Home, both of Seattle.