Virgil Frank Hoppert

On Sunday morning, January 31, The Lord decided it was time to reunite Virgil Hoppert of Petersburg, Michigan with his loving wife, Kathleen, whom he has greatly missed since her death in 2017. Virgil died unexpectedly in his home at the age of 83. He was the son of Norman and Gertrude (Redlinger) Hoppert, born December 20, 1937.

Virgil graduated from Ida High School in 1956 where he made great friends. He married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen Barkenquast, on August 31, 1957. He was a devoted and loving husband acting as her primary caretaker during her illness with dementia.

For 30 years Virgil worked in the factory at Dana Corporation as an oiler. He retired in 1987. During his retirement, he was able to enjoy his favorite hobbies. He was an avid gardener and shared his produce with many. He could often be seen down on his knees carefully tending to his garden, or sitting under the shade tree as he patiently watched his plants grow. His irises were the envy of many that passed by his home. Being a member of a fun-loving card club for over 50 years, Virgil loved to play cards. He had no problem taking dimes from his family and friends always with a twinkle in his eye as he exclaimed, “pay me”. He also enjoyed playing dart ball at the area churches. He attended various churches throughout his lifetime and knew his Bible and Savior very well.

Aside from loving his children and grandchildren immensely, one of his greatest joys was being able to meet his 3 great-grandchildren. One of his favorite things to do was to drive one of his great-grandsons around his 40-acre farm looking for “Injins” while collecting pine cones and dead leaves for the tiny hands to grip, generating many smiles for such treasures.

Virgil is survived by his children Glen (Brenda) Hoppert, Karen (Randy) Appling, Dale (Tina) Hoppert, Kay Hehl, and Lori (Dan) Crimmins; 10 grandchildren, Lindsey (David) Robison, Glen Hoppert, Bradley (Korrin) Appling, Alayna (Brandon) Rozanski, Tyler (Casey) Hoppert, Derek (Brandy) Hoppert, Spencer Hehl, Jared Hehl, Travis (Casey) Crimmins, Austin Crimmins; 3 great-grandchildren, Kylie Hoppert, Clayton Appling, Henry Crimmins; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his son-in-law, Mike Hehl.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, all services and burial at Lulu Cemetery are private.

Memorials may be given to Dundee Baptist Church. The family would also like to remember Virgil’s favorite restaurant, Papa’s Place at 36 Saline St., Petersburg, MI. Memorials may be given, and/or you may patronize the business for a delicious meal. Restaurants in Michigan need our support after being forced to shut down. Please tell them that Virgil sent you.