Let our experience be your advantage
With deep respect and heartfelt remembrance, we honor the life and legacy of Robert L. Hoover—an extraordinary attorney, mentor, adventurer, and friend. As a pioneer in the field of Family Law and the founding force behind one of Northern California’s most respected firms, Mr. Hoover’s impact on the legal community and the countless lives he touched will never be forgotten. His commitment to justice, love for exploration, and unwavering dedication to excellence leave behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Our beloved Robert L. “Bob” Hoover — a devoted husband of over 50 years, proud father of seven children and wise grandfather to their offspring, gentle father figure to many, loyal friend to countless, pioneer of Santa Clara County family law, and founder of Hoover Krepelka, LLP for the past 65 years — passed away unexpectedly last Friday evening at 9 p.m. He almost made it to 94, yet he lived a magnificent life ten times over, leaving behind a legacy that remains strong within us today.
A native Californian and graduate of Santa Clara University School of Law, Bob began practicing law in 1960 and steadily grew his practice into the largest Northern California firm exclusively focused on Family Law. His leadership and dedication helped establish Family Law as a respected and vital area of legal practice. Bob was instrumental in developing the Judge Pro-Tem system, now a fundamental part of the Santa Clara County Court system. Over the decades, he became a trusted attorney to hundreds of Silicon Valley’s top executives and successfully handled numerous high-profile, hundred-million-dollar cases.
Bob’s life outside the law was no less remarkable. He served as an Air Force Instructor, worked as a Deputy Sheriff, and pursued adventure with unmatched energy. He completed 18 marathons, two ultra-marathons, bicycled from Canada to Mexico, kayaked internationally, and climbed some of the world’s most challenging peaks. Most recently, he conquered the Kalalau Trail in Hawaii — one of the most beautiful and demanding hikes in the world.
Those who knew Bob will remember his optimism, kindness, patience, humor, and unwavering pride in others. He was an avid reader, a devoted traveler, and a man who found joy in exploring the world with his family, friends, and beloved wife, Gale.
While death is inevitable, Bob seemed almost immortal — a constant source of wisdom, laughter, and encouragement. Bob would want you to know that he loved you and was proud of you. He would also want you to know he never missed a day of work, continuing up until the Wednesday before he passed. On his behalf, we thank you for being a part of his life, supporting him with your presence and love, and allowing him to be the gift he was to our community.