Barbara "Barb" J. Hooper

Barbara "Barb" J. Hooper, 73, passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at Settlers House.

Barb was born on September 5, 1949 in Queens, NY, to Anthony and Lillian (Walthers) Wroblewski.

Surviving Barb are her sisters, Linda Askew of Amsterdam, NY and Jayne DeBois of Mastic, NY; and dear friends, Cindy Ault, Lorraine Tighe and Marissa Jongkind, all of La Porte.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Barb taught physical education and health at Kesling Middle School in La Porte for 40 years.  While there, she also coached and was the Athletic Director for many years, retiring in 2018.  Before coming to La Porte schools, Barb taught for several years in the South Central School Corporation.

Barb was an avid dog trainer for over 40 years and even competed with her dogs in flyball and Frisbee competitions.  She was an active member and taught many classes through Trail Creek Dog Training Club, as well as, sharing her skills at Camp Gone to the Dogs.  Barb's love for dogs was so deep that she helped organize a group of therapy dogs, including her own pets, that made monthly visits to La Porte Hospital for over 20 years.   She also personally raised seven puppies for Leader Dogs for the Blind.  Her dogs are guiding people all over the U.S.

She faithfully served on the board of the La Porte County Small Animal Shelter for several years and would aid people in wildlife rescues.

Many people recognized Barb with her miniature horse, Libby, ringing the bell for the Salvation Army during the Christmas holiday.  Libby loved to ring the bell and entertain her fans at the La Porte Post Office.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.  A Private Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Leader Dogs for the Blind, 1039 S. Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307 or the Jane Bernard Animal Adoption Center, 2855 West State Road 2La Porte, IN 46350.