Norbert C. "Hop" Hoppe, 73, of Battle Creek, died Apr 12, 2002, after a short illness, at Calhoun County Medical Care Facility, with his family at his side.
He was born Jan 8, 1929 in Taylor County, WI, to Herman Carl and Bertha Freda (Ludwig) Hoppe. In 1935 he moved to South Boardman, and to Battle Creek in 1946. He was employed at United Steel & Wire for 11 years, at Oliver Electric from 1957 to 1966 and as a dispatcher for General Motors, Fisher Body North American Operations in Kalamazoo for 25 years until his retirement in 1991.
He was married in Battle Creek Aug 9, 1952 to Norma June Allen. He was a member of UAW Local 0499 and enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, gardening, sports, traveling, snowmobiling and spending quality time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years. Also surviving are his daughter, Joyce M (Clair) Lockwood of Charlotte, son, David N (Beth) Hoppe of Battle Creek, stepdaughter, Vivian S Rice Blanchette of Battle Creek, stepson, Edward E (Kathy) Rice of Okemos; nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren; brother, Herbert Hoppe of South Boardman; sisters, Adeline O'Neill of Port Charlotte, FL and Irlien Magill of Euclid, OH.
He was preceded in death by brothers, Herman and George Hoppe; sisters, Emma, Grace, and Annie and stepson Frederick C Rice.
The family would like to thank a special friend, Barb Butler, and her family for their care and support.
Funeral services were held at the Farley-Estes and Dowdle Funeral Home Apr 15. Pastor Robert L Zuhl officiated. Interment was at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 100 W Michigan, Suite 210, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.
