We were JUST reminiscing about Lou and decided to look him up only to be saddened to read of his recent passing. I remember Lou's passion for his work but even more for the pride he had in his family. When he wasn't talking about his son "weather boy", we talked about wood turning and other random topics. We definitely lost a good one! Rest in peace.

I worked with Lou at Fidelity, we were always the first ones there. We had our coffee and solved the world problems. He was such a good friend and will be missed. Everything that was said was so true.  Valerie, I am sorry for your loss  but then again, he is not lost if you know where he is in Heaven. 

Gary Lubbers 

My condolences to the entire Hocker family. I first met Lou at Fidelity when he joined the PAS group. We were on the same team for many years. I really enjoyed how he challenged the portfolio manages when they came to Westlkake for their semi annual talk. It was fun to see his passion. 

I remember how proud he was of his family. May you all find comfort. 

I met Lou&Val when they lived in Fairport, well over 50+ years ago. Lou and my husband Vasant were co-workers at Xerox. We hadn’t been a couple very long when we visited them. After talking with them during the evening and seeing how they interacted as a family (Jen was a toddler), I knew I wanted what they so obviously shared.  At the time I wasn’t sure what it was, but I knew I wanted in!

As I’ve reflected over the years I came to realize it was their LOVE that was so visible to me. They radiated the Love of God, reached out to me, and drew us in to their circle of friendship. Through their shared love, I was drawn back into my Catholic faith and have been in deep love with God through His Son, Jesus, ever since. 

I treasure our years together in Texas. They are “Uncle Lou” and “Aunt Val” to our son Eric to this day. We had so much fun and laughter around our tables for Holiday meals, and in the pool during the summer.

I thank God for allowing me to share in Lou’s life. He and his family hold a special place in my heart. They will remain in my prayers.  I can visualize Lou’s welcome into Jesus ‘ arms.  “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Dear Val, Jenni, and James,

We extend our condolences on the passing of Lou so unexpectedly. We have many fond memories of our times with all of you.

Lou and Val were my neighbors for more than 20 years. He and I had some fascinating chats in the yard between our houses, everything from gardening to investing to following the kids’ activities. He thought deeply and was a great teacher because he guided us (whoever) into thinking about the problem and potential alternatives and solutions. He also had a great sense of humor and we had some good chuckles and laughs.

After they moved from Richardson to Trophy Club, we stayed in touch and talked about and shared travel experiences.

His involvement with his family, community, and traveling kept him youthful, active and involved. He will be missed.

Carol and Max

Val, Jeni and James, we have often said this last few weeks, that we can't find the right words to let you know how saddened we have been with Lou's unexpected passing. I often say it wouldn't hurt so much, if we didn't love so much. Lou was definitely a gift from God for all of us. 

I first met Lou,  when I was in high school, and on a summer trip from Miami to New Jersey.  Val and Lou were recently engaged, so it was great to be a part of the excitement. Lou was so kind and wanted to know all about me, my family and the future plans I had. You could definitely see his love for her family and especially for my beautiful cousin, Val.

One summer, I had the pleasure of joining them on a trip to the Jersey Shore. 

We had so much fun and enjoyed good times and a lots of laughter. I even had sailing lessons.  Lou and his friends knew how to enjoy the water; although the water was too cold for this Florida girl.

Sadly time and distance didn't give us the opportunity to see Val and Lou for many years.  But Val would keep me posted. 

Lou was so proud of his kids, his grandkids, and keeping "his park" clean.  It was hard to keep him still, even when he wasn't up to it. He lived life to the fullest! We were blessed to have him as part of our family.

I am sure God embraced Lou with open arms, and reminded him that it was time to rest, as he had always been such a faithful servant, who embraced his faith, family and community. We will miss you, dear Lou!❤️

Val, Jeni and James, please know that we will be embracing your family in our thoughts and prayers on Friday morning.

Cousin Valerie and Family, I know this is a very difficult time that you all are going through. I pray that our Heavenly Father will comfort you during this time as only He can do. All any of us can say is that you are not going through this alone. We are here mourning, praying and thinking of you, even though we are many miles away. Remember to dwell on the "Good and Memorable Memories," that no one can ever take from any of you!!

Lou, was my Cousin-in-Law. In fact, he was my favorite CIL. I only got to meet him once when I was just a little boy.  He made quite an impression on me.  If I remember right he loved to laugh and have a good time. He liked to tease me and even scared me half to death one night when he and my neighbor (I think) next door, decided to peer through our back window in the dark and make scary noises. I never forgot that as you see. But later in life I got a big laugh out of that incident. As you can see, I am sharing this with you all now with a smile on my face. For several years Cousin Valerie would send a Christmas Letter to us keeping us updated on what the whole family was up to and had experienced that year.  Even though we have not seen most of our family members for many years does not mean we have forgotten them. We pray for all of our family members daily and always will. We will miss you Lou and all that you meant to each of us!!

2015 Citizen of the Year Nominee.

Volunteer Award for all his work at Trophy Club Park

Lou spent countless hours helping maintain Trophy Club Park

Hiking with Lou during the pandemic.

We are so saddened to hear of Lou's passing. Our family will always hold a special place in our hearts for Lou. Our little girls would often climb the tree in our backyard and yell hello over the fence.  He always greeted them with a smile and engaged in conversation about all things nature. We were so grateful to have such wonderful neighbors especially once the pandemic began. Swapping produce, crafts for the kids and even sharing some socially distanced hiking with Lou at Trophy Club park gave us a sense of community during a time of isolation when the world seemed uncertain. He always spoke fondly of his kids and grandkids. Our prayers are with you all as you navigate the grief of this tremendous loss. Sending love from Western North Carolina.

The Barlow family

Toasting Lou and Val over the fence