ASHEBORO — A 24-year veteran of the Asheboro Fire Department died Saturday after suffering from COVID-19 and associated lung damage. Battalion Chief Chris Hoover, 47, had been at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill since November 24, 2021.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Battalion Chief Chris Hoover after a hard-fought battle with COVID-19. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hoover family,” said a statement from the fire department.
Following his passing, Hoover was carried home to Randolph County in a procession of emergency and rescue vehicles from Chapel Hill. Local fire departments — including Ash-Rand Rescue Squad, Staley Fire Department, Franklinville Fire Department, Ulah Volunteer Fire Department, and Tabernacle Volunteer Fire Department — joined Chapel Hill Police, UNC Police, Carrboro Fire-Rescue and Orange County Emergency Services in escorting Hoover home. Along the route to Asheboro, firefighters across the state showed up to shows their respects to Hoover and his family.
Westside Fire & Rescue staffed an engine at the Asheboro Fire Station No. 1 throughout the day on Sunday to allow Hoover’s station mates to take part in the processional.
Hoover was born in Randolph County on December 4, 1974, the son of the late Dallas and Emily Hoover. He was a graduate of Southwestern Randolph High School. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Hoover; daughters, Karli Hoover and Kara Hoover.
Chris Hoover’s complete obituary will be published in the January 12 issue of the North State Journal.
