Abigail Rose Hooper, 20, known as Abby to family and friends, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024, from complications of kidney disease.
Abigail Rose Hooper (Abby) was born on September 23, 2003, in Waterloo, IA. Abby was adopted by Kathy and Jim Hooper in 2014. She joined their family as a shy, timid little girl at the age of 9. They watched her blossom into a beautiful young lady. Abby was enthusiastic to learn new things and go to new places. Abby was filled with love for people, especially children and those with disabilities, also for animals, especially sharks. Kindness filled her and she was willing to help those in need.
Abby started her education path at Johnston Elementary in Johnston, IA. She moved to Interstate 35 elementary and then returned to Johnston schools. During these years Abby loved to dress in purple and pink and adorned herself in dresses, tutus, and leggings.
During her middle school years her color choice turned to blue. It reminded her of the ocean and her sharks. She joined the basketball and volleyball teams. She played the trumpet in the school band.
Abby attended Johnston High School. She performed with the school band which led her to joining Color Guard and the Flag team which was her true love and joy. She excelled at this and after graduating Johnston High School in 2022 she returned to coach the Flag team.
Abby loved music of all kinds. Music played a big part in her life. She loved to attend musical events and plays, which helped to form many friendships.
Abby was a member of Glen Echo Christian Church in Des Moines, IA. She was a member of the choir and loved singing “I’ll Fly Away” with her dad. Her church family was very important to her. Working in the nursery with the children was special to her. At Christmas, she would be one of the Angels with the children in the pageant.
After graduating she nannied, which she thoroughly enjoyed, and those children remained special to her.
In 2015, Abby was diagnosed with Small Vessel Vasculitis which started her health issues. Abby was chosen as a Kid Captain in 2016 for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. It was a very positive and encouraging experience for her and her family. Through this, she met many wonderful people and made loving friendships. The University of Iowa became part of her family and held a cherished place in her heart.
In 2021, after many health challenges, Abby underwent a kidney transplant due to her disease. The next couple of years were filled with many obstacles and challenges.
Abby is survived by her mother; Kathy Hooper, sister; Jessica (Tristan) Hooper, brothers; Sal (Tay) Mancini, Michael Katzmann, Jordan Katzmann, grandparents; Bev Katzman(GG), Sally Leeper, Carl & Jeanette Hooper and Kurt and Krissy Katzmann, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, her boyfriend Parker Fenton and Godparents Deanna & Mo Zekkour. She was preceded in death by her father, James “Jim” Hooper, grandpa Leeper and great grandpa and great grandma Wilkie.
Although Abby’s life was short, she knew the love of God, the love of her family and friends and joy and happiness.
Abby would want to remind you that she loved you; and, to let you know you made a difference in her life.
Abby, you will be greatly missed.
Her celebration of life will be held at 1 pm on Friday, July 19th at the Glen Echo Christian Church, 4323 Douglas Ave, Des Moines. The family will greet friends from 11 am until service time. The burial will be in the Earlham Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to the family for gifts in Abby’s name to entities that supported her through her journey with kidney disease, her love of animals and her church.
Her celebration of life will be held at 1 pm on Friday, July 19th at the Glen Echo Christian Church, 4323 Douglas Ave, Des Moines. The family will greet friends from 11 am until service time. Burial will be in the Earlham
Cemetery.
The celebration of life will be live streamed, go here: Celebration Of Life For Abigail "Abby" Hooper on Vimeo
Memorials may be directed to the family for gifts in Abby’s name to entities that supported her through her journey with kidney disease, her love of animals and her church.