Alan Anderson Hoover of Indianapolis, Indiana passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the age of 80. 

Alan was born on December 23, 1945, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kathryn Zimmerman Hoover and Dr. J. Guy Hoover, who adopted Alan and raised him as his own son, and by his brother, Guy Hoover. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of nearly 32 years, Diane D. Hoover; his sons, Jay Alan Hoover and John Michael Hoover (Gabrielle Hoover); his brothers, Dr. Michael Hoover (Dr. Maria Del Rio Hoover) and Attorney John Hoover (Martha Hoover); his brother-in-law, Jack Dunn (Elizabeth Dunn); sister-in-law Sharon McMillin, and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. 

Raised in Evansville, Indiana, Alan enjoyed an adventurous childhood fueled by curiosity and creativity. Whether building model rockets, experimenting with chemistry, racing homemade go-karts, or teaching himself how things worked, he approached life with enthusiasm and fearlessness. That curiosity would remain a defining characteristic throughout his life. 

Alan attended Bosse High School, where he excelled in math and science and discovered a lifelong passion for music. At age seventeen, he formed a band with friends called The Villains, becoming a popular fixture throughout the Evansville tri-state area. The band played fraternity parties, dance halls, and clubs, including Evansville's Surf Club. One of the highlights of their success was opening for The Beach Boys at Roberts Stadium. 

Following high school, Alan attended the University of Evansville, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. His professional career began in Indianapolis, where he worked in electronics and avionics before joining RCA, later Thomson Consumer Electronics. Throughout his career, Alan contributed to innovative technologies ranging from advanced electronics systems to high-fidelity audio design. 

Alan's interests extended far beyond his profession. An accomplished hobbyist and lifelong learner, he built telescopes with hand-polished mirrors, designed and constructed audio amplifiers and speaker systems, enjoyed photography and home developing, painted in oils with a love for tall sailing ships, and played both electric and acoustic guitar. Diane often referred to him as her "Renaissance man," a title that perfectly captured his remarkable range of talents and interests.

His passion for music and engineering eventually led to his greatest entrepreneurial achievement. Alongside his longtime friend and engineering partner Gary Osborne, Alan co-founded Maniac Music, Inc. Together they developed Sustainiac, a revolutionary electromagnetic guitar effect that opened up a whole new world of potential for the instrument and player alike. What began as a simple question evolved into a patented product now used by musicians around the world and incorporated into dozens of guitar models by leading manufacturers. Alan remained actively involved in the company until his passing, and his legacy will continue through the business he helped build. 

Alan was an American patriot who deeply loved his country, its founding principles, and the freedoms it represented. He was equally passionate about the outdoors. He enjoyed backpacking in Wyoming's Wind River Range, fishing, quail hunting, and spending time with family and friends sharing stories and laughter. 

Golf became one of Alan's greatest joys later in life. He and Diane embraced the game together and spent countless happy days on golf courses in both Indianapolis and Naples, Florida, where they enjoyed winter months together. More than anything, Alan treasured the life he and Diane built side by side. 

Alan loved all kinds of music, from classic rock and roll to classical masterpieces. One of his favorite works was Scheherazade by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Music remained a constant companion throughout his life and reflected the creativity, passion, and joy that defined him. 

Those who knew Alan will remember his intelligence, curiosity, generosity, humor, and unwavering devotion to family. He lived a life rich with purpose, creativity, and love. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"The song is over, but the melody lingers on." — Irving Berlin

Visitation will be held from 12pm – 1pm on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.