Richard A. Hoppin
1921 - 2012
Condolences
I'll always have wonderful memories of my time spent as a summer field assistant to Professor Hoppin together with Marge and their young children at the time (Jan, Art and Chuck) at our tent camp in the Big Horn Mountains in the mid-60's. My sincere condolences at this time of sadness, but know that he had a great impact on his students: a great legacy that he takes with him and leaves you.
David Mikesh
TO: Dr. Hoppin's family
I always admired Dr Hoppin and appreciated the kindness he showed to me. You see he approved a "Leave of Absence" for me in 1976 and therefore I did not lose any benefits when I returned to the University in 1978. I went on to work 36 years at the University retiring in 2009 under the Early Retirement Incentive Program. So that is the rest of my story. May his kind acts serve to remind you that his was a life well lived. Jan Thein
I was saddened to hear this news. Dr. Hoppin was a great professor and a wonderful person. I learned a lot from his courses and I believe that his teaching gave me a strong foundation that has benefited me throughout my career. I recently gave a talk at the Department of Geology. He sat in the front row and beamed the entire time. After the talk, he came up and hugged me and said how proud he was of me. I will never forget that. His expression of pride really touched me.
Dr. Hoppin was a special fellow and he will long be remembered!
Dear Marge,
it was with much sadness that I read of Dick's death. Such an interesting history he had-a man to be proud of. So many accomplishments large and small. This is a prayer that I like:
Dear Marge,
Cathy and I were saddened to hear the news of Dr. Hoppin's passing. We feel fortunate to have had the chance to visit with you both this past holiday season and only wish it had been more frequent in recent years.
I owe a lot to Dr. Hoppin who first got me interested in structural geology as an undergrad and eventually provided guidance as my thesis advisor. It was on his visit to the Bighorns while I was mapping my thesis that I most remember. Even though he was in his early 60's at the time, he was in great shape and usually leading me up the trails to the highest vantage point to share his mapping insight. Cath and I will never forget when Dr. Hoppin treated us to several nights stay at the Paint Rock Creek Lodge where he was staying rather than having us sleep in our tent. As newlyweds of 1 month and trying to stretch our money to cover the mapping season, we were very grateful for Dr. Hoppin's generosity. He was an interesting man who lived a full life, setting both a great personal and professional example to follow.
We regret we can't pay our respects in person, please accept our condolences at this time of loss.
Kevin and Cathy Putney
Dearest Marge & family,
I have been so fortunate to be Dr. Hoppin's graduate student and deeply appreciate all his guidance professionally and fatherly-figure mentoring personally over the years. After my graduation, my family and I enjoyed the friendship you both generously offered, and I'm so glad I had a great visit last year and a wonderful chat with him during the holidays. Sorry that I could not be there to pay my final respect tomorrow, but my spirit will be with you all!
Dick was a rare and true scholar who taught me that art and family were as important as science. Through example, he nurtured my scientific curiosity as well as helped me mature as a parent. It was an honor to be his Structural TA for four great years at Iowa. I used the proximity of my office to his in old Trowbridge hall to chat about mundane and complex topics. I warmly remember our discussions on a variety of topics such as how to adequately teach structural analysis, modern analogs of Mephistopheles we both knew, and how to deal with pot smoking during labs and on field trips. Judy and I remain grateful that Dick and Marge welcomed us and both our children as members of their extended family. While we grieve with his biological and professional family at his passing, we recognize that Dick remains part of who we are. I know that part of me has and continues to influence those around me.
I remember you and Dr. Hoppin as such caring and motivational people in my so innocent youth. You entrusted me with your home and children for hours. You and your family are remembered by me with love, and I finally did learn to change diapers!!! May God be close to you and your family always,
P.D.
Dear Marge,
We consider ourselves so fortunate to have known and lived next door to Dick, who was generous and kind to us in countless ways. He was so patient with Sophie and Gus and we will all miss him very much. Knowing you both has made such a difference in our lives here in Iowa, and we are thankful for your friendship. Please call on us if ever you need anything.
Much love,
Missy, Rich, Gus and Sophie
Dear Jan, Marge, and Hoppin Family,
We are very sorry to hear of Dick's passing. We would like to express our sincere condolences to the Hoppin Family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are will you all.
The Hensel Family
Scottsdale, AZ
Condolences to your family, Jan and Marge. I won't be able to be at the service, so please accept my electronic condolences. 90 is impressive! Please take the best of care and know you all are in my thoughts.
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