Wilburn Hoppy Hopkins

Wilburn B. "Hoppy" Hopkins, 83, of New Philadelphia, Ohio died Monday, October 18, 2010 in his home following an extended illness.

Hoppy was born January 24, 1927 in Birds Run, Ohio, the son of the late Wilburn T. and Goldie Mildred Johnson Hopkins.

He retired in 1981 as a truckdriver for Baker Highway Express. Following retirement, he worked as a security guard for Burns Security.

Wilburn proudly served his country during World War II in the U.S. Army where he was stationed in France and Germany. He was a life member of the Dover VFW. He was also a member of the New Phila Moose Lodge. "Hoppy" was a true outdoorsman where he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was also an avid birdwatcher. He was a lover of music particularly old country, blue grass, and polkas. You could often find "Hoppy" at the television set during his favorite variety shows including Andy Griffith.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Hazel (Bradford) Hopkins who died July 15, 1987. He was also preceded by two sons, James "Poncho" Hopkins and Terry Hopkins and a great granddaughter.

Wilburn is survived by seven children, Donald E. Hopkins and his companion, Olive Blair of Coshocton, Bonnie (husband, Doug) Jones of Corning, Ohio, William L. Hopkins of Sebring, Brenda Griffith and her companion, Jeff Mehok of New Philadelphia, Cheryl A. Geltz and her companion, Joe Appling of Dover, Robert R. (wife, Karen) Hopkins of New Philadelphia and David W. (wife, Naomi) Hopkins of New Philadelphia; a sister, Betty L. (husband, Don) Linard of New Philadelphia; his companion, Erma Snyder and 25 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, 9 great great grandchildren and three expected great great grandchildren. He is also survived by his friend and canine companion, Teddy.

A celebration of Hoppy's life will be held Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 1pm in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at Dover with Pastor Brian Flood officiating. He will be laid to rest beside his wife, Hazel at the Dover Burial Park where the Dover VFW will conduct military graveside honors. A reception will follow in the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 5-8pm. Those unable to attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of "Hoppy" may sign the online guestbook by visiting the "obituaries" link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, St. Jude's Hospital, or Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County.

Toland-Herzig, Dover
330 343-6132