Dr. John Van Hook's Obituary
Dr. John Van Hook, 71, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2020. Born in Abington, Pennsylvania, on May 18, 1949, John attended Columbia University in New York City and Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. He held a PhD in English from the University of Washington in Seattle, and a PhD in Library Sciences from the University of Chicago.
John was a well-regarded and highly influential library faculty member, beloved by the UF English department. He served as the English, Folklore and Performing Arts Librarian, retiring in July of 2017. In recognition of his meritorious service to the George A. Smathers Libraries and the University of Florida, John was nominated by his faculty peers for and was awarded emeritus status by the university. This is a special status and is considered a high honor.
John was passionate about books, ideas, classical music and animals, having taken in a number of much-loved canine companions over the years. He is survived by his mother, five siblings, three nieces, three nephews, three grand-nieces and three grand-nephews. A generous and considerate soul, he is greatly missed by his family and friends. Donations in Dr. Van Hook’s memory may be made to the SPCA of North Florida.
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