Charles Francis “Charlie” Hopp, passed peacefully into his heavenly home Friday, July 25, 2025, at Twin Oaks Health & Rehab in Lansing, Kansas. He was 98.
Charlie as he was affectionately known by family and friends, was born in Maryville, Missouri, September 10, 1926, one of eight children born to Clarence Abraham and Ada Belle Ray. He grew up on a farm in near Hiawatha, Kansas and Falls City, Nebraska areas where he attended country schools.
He served in the Merchant Marines during World War II and was a true patriot! Being a devoted husband and father, his philosophy was “God, Family, Country”
He met and fell in love with the love of his life, Maxine May Beaman. They were united in marriage on September 27th, 1949, and were blessed with 70 years of marriage. They lived nearly all of their married life in Highland where they raised their family.
Maxine preceded him in death on September 15, 2019. Charlie is also preceded in death by an infant daughter Tony Kay, his parents; seven brothers and sisters.
Growing up on a farm, he knew the value of dedicated work. Charlie spent most of his working life owning and operating a tractor trailer, delivering freight all across the United States. When he retired from trucking, he was the maintenance supervisor for USD#429 of Troy for a number of years.
Survivors include a son Rick Hopp (Kathy) of St. Joseph, Missouri, a daughter Debbie Zlab (Dave) of Lansing, Kansas, seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; with many nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.
Due to the hot weather, graveside services are planned for 11 a.m. Friday, August 1, at the Highland Christian Church. Inurnment will follow at Highland Cemetery. Military honors a courtesy of Dillion Bales American Legion and Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.
Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 12 noon until 5 p.m. Thursday to sign the register book. The family will meet with friends a half hour before service at Church.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Highland Christian Church or St. Croix Hospice which may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, 66035.
