Robert “Bob” Hopp Sr.
Robert “Bob” Hopp Sr., 92, of Fond du Lac, WI, passed away peacefully on Friday November 15, 2024, surrounded by loved ones who will cherish his memory forever. Born on October 9, 1932, in Fond du Lac, WI, Bob lived a full and meaningful life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his faith.
He is survived by his children: Robert “Bob” Hopp Jr., Cindy Morgan, Tammy (Dan Schingen) Toney, and James Hopp. Son in Law Michael Bellmer. He was a devoted and loving grandfather to eight grandchildren: Bobby, Ryan, Rebecca, Eric, Salem, Brian, Sara, and Amy. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Alex, Grant, Quinn, Ivy, Addie, and Duncan. Bob is also survived by his brother Jerry (Nancy) Hopp, and sister-in-law Patty Hopp, along with brothers-in-law John (Evie) Ransom, and sisters-in law Joan Ransom and Loni Behnke.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanne; his daughter, Sue Bellmer; his son-in-law, Tim Morgan; his sister, Helen Kline; his brothers James and Don Hopp, and sister-in-law Lou Hopp. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Herman Hopp and Eunice Boos, and his in-laws Marie & Allan Ransom Sr., Allan Ransom Jr., James & Marlene Ransom, and Robert “Bob” Behnke.
Robert married Jeanne on August 4, 1956, at St. Joseph Church, where his deep faith would later become central to his life. He had a varied and successful career, working at Crouch Bros/Sentry Foods for 20 years and Dana & Worm Pharmacy for 21 years. He was the owner of Remingtons Gift Store and the founder of Star Home Health in 1988, a business that later became part of SSM Health at Home.
Bob proudly served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps from 1950 to 1952, working as a teletype operator. His time in the service instilled in him a sense of duty and discipline that he carried throughout his life. He was also an active member of several organizations, including the 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus, the American Legion, the Fond du Lac Downtown Council, and the Pilgrim Virgin Program, in which he participated for over 35 years.
His devotion to the Catholic Church was an essential part of his identity. He dedicated his life to the Blessed Virgin Mary, leading all-night vigils, organizing rosary rallies at the fairgrounds, and serving in countless other ways. His unwavering faith and commitment to his community made him a beloved figure in the parish. In retirement, Bob continued to serve others by volunteering at The Agnesian Health Shoppe, always with a smile and a word of encouragement. He was helpful to everyone he met, never hesitating to lend a hand or offer support. His positive outlook on life was contagious; when asked how he was doing, he would answer
with superlatives like “fantastic,” “super,” “outstanding,” “wonderful,” and “terrific,” leaving everyone he encountered uplifted by his infectious optimism.
Bob’s life was a testament to his faith, his love for his family, and his tireless dedication to helping others. He was admired by all who knew him, and his kindness, sense of humor, and generosity will be remembered and missed by all whose lives he touched.
Bob’s family invites friends and relatives to a time of visitation on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Zacherl Funeral Home from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue the following day, Thursday, November 21, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 200 S. Peters Ave, Fond du Lac from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place following the visitation at 11:00 AM.