Robert Hooker
Robert “Bob” L. Hooker
TERM AS TRUSTEE
June 7, 2010 through June 2018
BIOGRAPHY
Robert Hooker’s education and experience in business and public relations got him involved on a large scale with Grand Rapids’ community development, including the Grand Action group. He chaired the fundraising efforts for Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place convention center. He co-chaired the Spectrum Health Heart Center campaign. He has served at a variety of Grand Rapids nonprofit and charity organizations throughout his career. He was very active in philanthropic circles as a volunteer and as a giver. He currently serves on the Grand Valley State University Foundation advisory cabinet.
Robert Hooker was born in Grand Rapids and grew up in Denver, Colorado. Bob returned to Grand Rapids to attend Calvin College and then enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving four years as a Russian Translator before returning to finish his A.B. degree. He then earned a Master Degree in Business Administration from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
In the late 1950’s he joined Import Motors working for Peter Cook as the advertising manager. Hooker’s education and business sense were very valuable at Import Motors and Peter Cook promoted him to partner. Bob served as Vice President of Import Motors from 1960-1977. In 1977, the two men formed Transnational Motors, Inc. dba Mazda Great Lakes. Bob served as Vice President of Transnational Motors from 1977-1981 and CEO from 1981-2000. He then served as Chairman and CEO of Mazda Great Lakes from 2000-2008.
Bob Hooker was married to the former Judith Stevens Hooker and had three sons and a daughter. He served as an Honorary Pallbearer at the State Funeral of President Gerald R. Ford.
Trustee Bob Hooker at the Growing Up Grand exhibit opening at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on May 7, 2013. (Photo Courtesy of Dr. Robert M. Humphries)