There is no welcoming visage in the Blair County Chamber of Commerce offices.
Stacy Hoover, vice president of events and technology, passed away unexpectedly at her residence in Sankertown on Monday afternoon. She was 47 years old. (Please see page A4 for the obituary)
“Anyone who knew Stacy was immediately impressed by how organized she was and how determined she was to ensure that everything… was done in the best way possible,” said Joe Hurd, president and chief executive officer of the chamber.
Hoover had spent 27 years at the chamber.
Hoover was one of the most compassionate individuals known to Hurd. Hurd stated, “She loved her family above all else, but she would also go out of her way to assist anyone in need.” “She also loved the chamber.”
Hurd stated that Hoover’s absence as a person and as a member of staff is practically impossible to replace.
Each year, Hoover and the Blair-Bedford Builders Association collaborated closely on the Home Garden and Healthy Living Show.
Dave DeBiase, executive director of the Blair-Bedford Builders Association, remarked, “Stacy was a very devoted and caring individual when it came to her involvement with community projects.”
The association was extraordinarily privileged to have collaborated with Hoover.
DeBiase stated that Hoover and her committee worked assiduously to produce a first-rate performance despite the show’s multifaceted nature.
Amy Mearkle, director of marketing and events for DelGrosso’s Park & Marianna’s Fundraisers, described Hoover as an advocate for businesses and chamber members who always had a smile on her face and was willing to assist with any query or need that arose.
“She was my go-to when a question arose, especially if I had written something down but couldn’t find my notes,” Mearkle explained. This is one of those unfathomable catastrophes, but you must have faith that God needed a very special angel, and he received one. All who knew her will mourn her passing.
According to Barb Smith, who served on the chamber’s safety committee for ten years and worked closely with Hoover, she strove for perfection.
Smith stated, “We would have a vision for an educational opportunity, and she could implement it without our involvement.” “She was so skilled at what she did, so kind, and always did it with a grin on her face. She exceeded all expectations.”
Smith stated that the loss of Hoover will be felt by all.
The proprietor of Press Box Printing, Mike Cree, described Hoover as “amazing, industrious, and a very devoted mother.
Cree stated, “We worked with her on numerous projects over the years, and they were always seamless; she will be greatly missed.” The forthcoming golf tournament will not be the same without her participation; we already mourn her.
According to a Facebook post, the chamber will close at noon today so that Hoover’s acquaintances and colleagues can attend his funeral.
Visitation will be conducted at Anderson Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services today from 2 to 8 p.m.
233 Keystone Avenue, Cresson, Pennsylvania.
A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 211 Powell Avenue, Cresson, officiated by the Reverend Leo Arnone. The burial will take place in the church cemetery.