Richard Bernerd Hoke

Richard B. Hoke, age 76, went to be with the Lord on January 19, 2025, surrounded by the presence of his loving family. Richard was a devoted, kind and resilient man. Despite his Parkinson’s diagnosis he never complained. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Debra Hoke (Hedrick), his daughter Christina Riemer and her spouse Justin; children Arwen, Zoey, Gabriella, and Jaxon. His son, James Hoke and his spouse Casey; children Miles and Chloe and his daughter Rachel Prusak and her spouse Peter; children Amelia, Oliver, Elijah and Isaiah. He is also survived by his siblings James, Doug, Clifford Jr. and Anita. He was preceded in death by his parents Clifford & Helen (Wilder) Hoke, his brothers Arthur, Lewis and William Hoke.

Richard was born in Johnson City, New York on January 6, 1949, and worked as a high school teacher for over 15 years in Christian schools. He inspired countless students along the way. He later became a microbiologist at a hospital and then worked for a pharmaceutical company formerly named Covance.

Outside of being a devoted husband, father, papa and friend, he enjoyed spending time gardening, bird watching and enjoying God’s creation. He was a member of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle. His hobbies were limited by his Parkinson’s diagnosis; however, he did not let that keep him from enjoying life.  The Climb exercise program was specifically created for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s and the Indiana Parkinson Foundation provided an accredited exercise education program called Rock Steady Boxing, which allowed him to persevere. He became an avid boxer at Rock Steady Boxing for many years.

Richard's legacy of love and laughter will be missed by his family and all who knew him. We will miss him, but we know will see him again. Until then, he lives in our hearts. We are saddened by his passing but give thanks that he is no longer suffering from his disease.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Southeast Baptist Tabernacle on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 2:00pm - 3:00pm. In Memory of Richard Hoke, donations can be made to Indiana Parkinson Foundation to help improve lives of those affected with Parkinson’s disease. Contributions can be made at www.indianaparkinson.org. or you may support the missions at Southeast Baptist Tabernacle at www.sbtindy.org/giving

Final care and arrangements by Norman F. Chance Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and words of comfort maybe offered at www.chancefuneralhome.com

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