Robert D. Hopper

Robert D. Hopper obituary, Stahlstown, PA

Robert D. Hopper

Robert Hopper Obituary

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Robert D. Hopper, 65, of Stahlstown, PA, passed away suddenly Monday, June 12, 2017 in Elyria, OH. Beloved husband of Tacey (née Keller); loving father of Jessie (Aaron) Zacek of Prospect, NY, Seth (Lacy) Hopper of Indianapolis, IN, and Luke Hopper of Fort Cambell, KY; cherished grandfather of Abigail, Joshua, Madeline, Samantha, and Nathaniel Zacek, and Mikayla, Angela, and Tyler Hopper; dear brother of Patricia (Alvis ('Wink')) Daniel of Florida, and nephew of William Powell also of Florida. Bob graduated from Grove City College in 1973 with his wife of 43 years, Tacey, whom he met in the freshman orientation line. They were married on January 5, 1974 in the chapel at Grove City College. They later attended Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. In his 39 years as a pastor, Bob's ministry was profoundly impacted by his mentors Dr. RC Sproul, Dr. John Gerstner and Dr. Larry Crabb as he served as the pastor for churches in Pittsburgh, Ligonier, and Virginia. He also spent 11 years as pastor of North Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Bob was called to use his gifts of mentoring and discipleship as the transitional pastor at Central Presbyterian Church in St Louis, MO, Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Wichita, KS, as well as churches in California and Indianapolis. Most recently he was at Bay Presbyterian Church in Bay Village, OH. Bob's passion for ministry extended to the Byerzhitsa Church in Bryansk, Russia and their work including orphanage ministry and helping with the construction of several of the daughter churches for the past 16 years. Bob's constant passion for mentoring and discipleship also showed through his work as an NRA Firearms Training Counselor and a certified SIG SAUER Master Firearms Instructor. Bob's favorite pastime was spending time with his family. Additionally, he enjoyed shooting with family and friends as well as being an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan. At the request of the family, please do not send floral tributes. Instead, the family would greatly appreciate that any donations be given in Bob's honor to further the ministry of the Byerzhitsa Church in Bryansk. All donations should be made out to North Park Church with Bryansk on the memo line. Below is an excerpt from a tribute to Bob received from the church in Byerzhitsa: 'I don't want to believe this saddest news. We are all crying and calling each other, wishing it were not true. Luda called me tonight weeping, then pastor Sergey Pladushchev. Sergey said if he could he would fly to you tomorrow to be with you as you are our dearest family. We are all very sad. But you know, Tacey, I have often thought about one thing: I haven't yet had anyone really dear in heaven waiting for me (beside Jesus of course), now I know our pastor Bob is going to be there with his smile, saying Ira, Dima, Yulya, Sveta, Luda…when he sees us. This makes me long for Father's home even more. Ivan and Tanya Romanenko express their heartfelt condolences and I am sure when more people know tomorrow, they will be very sorry, I don't want to say about the loss – this is not about our pastor Bob – he's always been a gain in our lives as I am sure he is for Jesus.' A memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm on Sunday, June 18, 2017 at North Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 600 Ingomar Rd, Wexford, PA 15090. The Rev. Dan Henley, Rev. Dr. Rodger Woodworth, and Bruce Allison will be conducting the celebration. Cremation by Busch Crematory. 440-333-9774 www.buschcares.com

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May 9, 2023

Jan H. posted to the memorial.

June 12, 2018

Jodee Hunger posted to the memorial.

June 11, 2018

Gary & Jan Smith posted to the memorial.

Jan H.

May 9, 2023

Dear Tacey and family -- so sorry to hear of Rev. Bob's passing. I am just a friend from long ago from our High School days and just recently came to know about your loss. You were so kind during those days, Tacey -- I remember your wonderful smile. And what wonderful work you both did for the Lord. God is now saying --- So very well done, my Good and Faithful Servant. Praying for All of you -- and Bob too. Blessings, Jan

Jodee Hunger

June 12, 2018

This past Sunday our congregation in Bay Village was reminded that today, Tuesday, June 12th, 2018, marks the one year anniversary of Pastor Hoppers earthly departure and heavens gain. To the Hopper family, please know that we miss this great man of God and are ever grateful for the meaningful time he gave us in Bay Village, Ohio. ~ Jodee Hunger

Gary & Jan Smith

June 11, 2018

Jan and I think of Bob often and truely miss him. Bob made a difference in our lives as he did for many. Blessings to Tacey and family.

Brian Miller

January 31, 2018

Hi Tacey, you don't know me but I was one of Bob's many friends. He was my NRA Training Counselor for multiple instructor certifications here in Orlando FL. I just came across the news of his passing while trying to find current contact info. He was a great man, mentor and instructor. He will be missed by many of us that knew him and had him as our training instructor!!

Dorothy Silence Weeks

September 11, 2017

Hi Tacey - We have been thinking about you a lot since the news of Bob's passing and remembering all the wonderful times together, particularly at both of our weddings. We were privileged to have Bob participate in our ceremony and thank you for your friendship and spiritual contributions throughout the years. May the Lord comfort you during this time. We rejoice knowing we will all be reunited again one day in His everlasting arms!

Mark Smith

August 29, 2017

Tacey and family, Even though I only spoke to Bob a few times since college and fraternity days I was shocked to hear about his passing. He was someone that I was drawn to for his warm, gentle personality and the easy going confidence in which he engaged life. I am not surprised by all the lives he has touched since I knew him at Grove City College. My sincere condolences, Mark Smith.

Tim Clasby

August 21, 2017

Tacey, I am very sorry for your loss. Your friend Tim Clasby.

Grace &Tom Rowe's niece Terri Knight Bryan

August 10, 2017

Tacey and family, this is such a shock. I was looking for current contact information when Bob's obituary popped up. Even though you have the assurance that you will be reunited in the presence of Jesus, I'm so very sorry for your loss of a wonderful husband, dad and Grandpa.

Jim Lettrich

July 18, 2017

I played basketball at Grove City College with Bob for 2 years on the Sigma Alpha Sigma fraternity team. He was a fantastic teammate and an even better person. I'm so glad to see all the accomplishments he's done over the past many years. Family: I'm sorry for your loss.

Diane Rhoads

June 28, 2017

Tacey, I am so sorry to hear the news of Bob's passing. My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Diane Rhoads

Helen Fitzkee

June 28, 2017

Tacey, I am so sorry to hear this news. We've lost touch over the years but at every sorority reunion, we spoke of you and Bob and how we wished that you would join us someday. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Helen and Toby

Dawn Stokes

June 28, 2017

So so sorry to hear this news. Praying for peace for all of the family.

Richard Cessar

June 28, 2017

Tacey, Bob and I spent time together in the last year of our Grove City days. After I was ordained as a permanent Deacon in the Dicoese of Pittsburgh in 1999, one of the people I spoke with about ministry was Bob. Please know of my prayers for you and your family. Blessings! Deacon Rick Cessar

Christine Kindle Sosebee

June 28, 2017

Oh Tacey, my prayers are with you. We just heard this shocking news today. After reading all the messages from your friends, it's apparent you and Bob have had an amazing life of service and touched so many. Sending you hugs.

Sue Appleton

June 28, 2017

We just learned of Bob's passing and our hearts are deeply saddened by your loss,Tacey.

Jeff Winter

June 26, 2017

Bob and I were almost youngsters when we went to seminary together. I always liked his last name and especially liked his caring personality. What a great loss.

Andrew Belz

June 21, 2017

I have nothing but respect and admiration for Bob and the entire Hopper family. Thank you for a life well-lived and for your service to the King. - Andrew Belz

Anthony Aslan

June 20, 2017

Prayers to your family in time of a great loss. I was a student and had so awesome times with Bob.

Mary and Bill Conner

June 20, 2017

We were so saddened to learn of Bob's sudden passing and extend our deepest sympathies to Tacey, Jessie, Seth, and Luke, and to Bob's entire family, including his sister Pat Daniel and her husband Wink and his uncle Bill Powell. We, as members of Bob's extended family, will always fondly remember the many holiday gatherings we had over the years, both in Pittsburgh and Florida, as well as many other get-togethers like visits to Bob's parents' home in New York and vacations in Siesta Key, FL.

In this time of sadness, we take solace in knowing that Bob led a caring, giving, and productive life that positively influenced so many people, and we are grateful for having known him and for having shared part of that life. Rest in peace, Bob.

Chester Goodale

June 19, 2017

I am so grateful to have known Bob! His teaching was clear, his heart was for the Lord, and he had such a cheerful spirit! His ministry was in word and deeds! Blessings to you, Tacey, and to your family.
Chester Goodale, Madera, California

Dave Fillman

June 18, 2017

When we were at one of the worst times of our lives, the Lord drew us back to Central Presbyterian where Bob was preaching. We desperately needed to hear God's Word for help. Bob preached with such force of the Spirit that it seemed every sermon was just for us. We never got to speak to him but it didn't matter because he spoke to us every time he preached. We look back and wonder at the Lord's care of us through this man of God. We are eternally grateful for him and can't wait to see him and thank him again. His work was done and now the eternal reward - what Glory he must be in right now, to see the smiling Face of Jesus!

Rev Dick/Marilyn Gorham

June 17, 2017

We share in your sorrow & loss of a dear husband, father, grandfather-Pastor Bob's friendship was special to us as touched our hearts throu his outstanding gifts of discipleship, preaching,caring, teaching for the Eastminster flock.. He truly reflected Jesus's heart of being most Godly man & faithful servant-loved his joyful spirit, that sparkle if n his eyes & that warm welcome smile. We appreciate how he instructed us in GodS Word-Eastminster was sooo Blessed. May God's steadfast LOVE be your strength bringing you Tacey & family much loving comfort. Because of Christ, there's a glorious HOPE! Trust your heart to find encouragement & new blessings as God fills you with the assurance of his presence. Asking God in our prayers for u & family to answer your every present need & may Bob'smemories become more precious year by year as well as his legacy of love for Jesus b your peace/comfort. God fill your cup & let there be JOY in the celebration of Bob's homecoming-that wonderful place of everlasting light! Ps 29:11
Rev Dick & Marilyn Gorham Wichita, Ks

This picture is one of my favorite moments with Bob in Russia, Siberia. And there have been many others that now flash in my mind telling a story of Bob's sacrificial love, strength, kindness, faith. I first picture him with my 2 year old daughter sitting

Irina Korytko

June 16, 2017

This picture is one of my favorite moments with Bob in Russia, Siberia. And there have been many others that now flash in my mind telling a story of Bob's sacrificial love, strength, kindness, faith. I first picture him with my 2 year old daughter sitting on his lap in the bus as we were going out to do street evangelism and who he couldn't help kissing in the top of the head when no one was looking. Home visits, talks bringing relief, words of hope and consolation, preaching in churches and streets, numerous suit-cases with gifts, construction sites, singing, laughing and eating - all these will be cherished in our hearts and minds. The most recent picture is of Bob praying over a Christian couple in January 2017, who didn't have children for about 10 years. He would be happy to know they are now expecting their fisrt baby. The other day as we were going through the train station in Bryansk II I suddenly remembered the last picture of Bob taken there by Roman Romanenko. Bob, Tacey and Pam were leaving Bryansk. He then told Roman that he would see him next time if not on earth, then in Heaven. This is where he is now and where we will see him again one day.

Ed Koehler

June 16, 2017

Bob was an amazingly unique pastor and mentor. He was a shining example of "high truth-high grace" and an exceptional preacher of God's Word. We will miss him deeply. With Tacey, his children, and the church universal, we long for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Ed and Judy Koehler, Central Presbyterian Church, St. Louis, MO

Gary and Jan Smith

June 16, 2017

Bob was out Pastor, shepherd and friend at Central Presbyterian Church. Jan and I came to know his love, truth, sincerity, leadership, heart, kindness and deep faith - he strengthened us and changed us. He left all us better than he found us. Our hearts and prayers go out to Tacey and the family and all their friends. We pray the sorrow and sense of loss is soon replaced with peace and the joy of knowing that Bob is with the Lord. We love Bob and will miss him. That said, I am certain his is still offering "a free cup of coffee" to all of us.

Chrys Pfahl

June 16, 2017

Although Bob was with our church for only a short time he inspired and encouraged us constantly. Because of his legacy we will continue to move forward in service to our Lord. Many prayers for you, his family, who will miss him the most but live in hope knowing you will see him again.

Josh Brown

June 15, 2017

Without Mr. Hopper, I would have been lost. Through his teaching he restored my faith in God. Now as I continue my high school years, I hope I can carry his teachings throughout my life

Dick & Carol Saffley

June 15, 2017

We were blessed by Bob and Tacey at Central Presbyterian Church in St. Louis, and send our heartfelt sympathy to the family. Dick & Carol Saffley

Aretta Zitta

June 15, 2017

Pastor Bob made a huge difference in my college years at William & Mary. I remember lots of wonderful sermons and challenges. But the thing I remember most - the thing that made the biggest impression - I visited the church early in my freshman year and then was absent for about 6 weeks. When I returned, Pastor Bob remembered my name. He greeted me by name. I stayed put for the rest of my college career. That was such a statement to me of how deeply Bob Hopper cared for people.

Sue Huff

June 15, 2017

I was so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. He was such a blessing to us here at Southport Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis. He will be sorely missed. May God wrap you in his loving arms and grant you peace as you grieve Tacey.

Marcia Poffenberger

June 15, 2017

What an amazing legacy Bob left us in the short 4 months he ministered at Bay Presbyterian Church. We will benefit from his love and wisdom for many months to come. We are praying for all who knew and loved him.

Kurt Striffler & family

June 15, 2017

Our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are will the family and friends around the world.

Carole Herndon Weimer

June 15, 2017

To the entire Hopper family my condolences. Pastor Bob and I never met personally. I guess one would call me a shut in. My sister suggested that since I couldn't get out to church I might go to her church's online services at Central Presbyterian Church. From his first sermon I heard, he had me tuning in every Sunday, thereafter. Every week, for over a year, he touched my heart and spirit. His sermons helped me get through the upcoming week with a smile on my face and in my spirit. When one lives with daily pain, it affects the spirit with wondering why. But Pastor Bob helped me get over that feeling and beginning to rejoice again in what our Lord does provide. I am so saddened by the loss of such a Godly man, but know that he is now in the presence of the Lord who gave him such a wonderful gift of touching people's hearts for his Savior. In this time of your family's loss, may the Lord minister to each of you knowing you were blessed to have him as a husband, father and grandfather for the time deemed by the Lord. Know that since he was with you he lives on in each of you with what he brought into your lives. God bless all of you as you enter this new path of life knowing others are sharing in your personal loss and will be in our prayers. With deepest sympathy.

Bob truly had a "servants" heart! He was full of joy! We will always remember him with a smile. He could preach God's word in a very personal way. For all his sucess he was a humble man. Our prayers go out to his loving family. God be with you, Kathy & Bo

Bob & Kathy Fulstone

June 15, 2017

Bob truly had a "servants" heart! He was full of joy! We will always remember him with a smile. He could preach God's word in a very personal way. For all his sucess he was a humble man. Our prayers go out to his loving family. God be with you, Kathy & Bob Fulstone

Carl Kuhns

June 15, 2017

Growing up, I recall many family vacations shared by the Kuhns & Hopper families at Van Buren Bay & Long Beach Island. Bob and I were often taken for brothers with sunburns and sunbleached blond heads. As we grew older, our interests differed and we never reconnected after college - Bob, of course, chose the challenging life as a minister and went on to make a difference to many people - contributions that will surly be missed - may you rest well, Rev. Bob, knowing our Lord has accepted your service.

mary Kuehn

June 15, 2017

Bob's Family, We do not know you personally but love you and did really , indeed, feel God send youHusband and Father to Bay Presibyterian...Grace and Peace and our deepest sympathies. Mary and Don Kuehn

Doug and Cyndy Kennedy

June 15, 2017

Few men have ever impacted me more in such a short span of fellowship than Bob Hopper. He was surely sent by the Triune God to preach the flawless scriptures and show honor and glory to his Savior- Jesus.
Both Cyndy and will always be spiritually richer because of Bob pastoring us at Central Presbyterian. I can still see his glowing smile and also the firmness of his Godly Character leading session classes. I am inspired to be a better human because of Bob Hopper. Tacey- we share your sorrow and are here for you as you need.
Blessings, Doug and Cyndy Kennedy, Central Presbyterian Church, Saint Louis.

Julie Geisz

June 15, 2017

Pastor Bob emanated the joy of trusting the Lord Jesus. Our family is so thankful for the time he spent at Central Presbyterian in St Louis. His kindness toward all and his application-oriented gospel preaching called us to look beyond personal hurts to the great call of living the gospel in our community. I frequently remember his illustration of human experience being like a box that God Himself has taken the lid off and entered. I've heard it said that a ministry can only grow as large as its view of God. Pastor Bob pointed us to the sovereign, powerful, compassionate, everlasting God and we thank you his family for sharing us with him for a while. Much love to Tacey- his affection for you was palpable. Praying for you all as you mourn.

Steve Merkel

June 15, 2017

We at Bay Presbyterian Church are asking for Jesus to surround the family with his love and comfort at this time. Bob will be sorely missed here. Why now, we ask. Perhaps the answer is best summed up in the hymn "We'll understand it better by and by."

Ginny Joyce-Isett

June 15, 2017

Thoughts and prayers to your family.

June Barrow

June 15, 2017

We are truly saddened at the news of Bob's passing. He was the perfect transitional pastor for Southport Church in Indianapolis and a wonderful colleague for the staff who worked with him. Though he was only with us for a year, his mentoring on many individuals was profound and long-lasting. We are grateful for his life.

Linda Busch

June 14, 2017

We were blessed to sit under Bob's teaching at Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Wichita, KS. His messages still ring in my heart. May God bless you as you mourn him.

Laura Scaminace

June 14, 2017

You are going to be missed -- we only had your amazing preaching for a short time. I feel cheated but we have eternity with Jesus. Blessings to your family during this sad and unexpected time!! God bless you all.

Pixie Lichtenstein

June 14, 2017

My fondness of "Bobby" Hopper goes way back! I am truly saddened at the loss of this special man of God, and incredibly special friend. I rejoice knowing he and my husband Jim are catching up! My love and prayers are with Tacey, Jessie, Seth and Luke, and all the family that is experiencing tremendous loss. Pixie

This is a pic of some of the Eastminster Church staff girls with Bob at one of his favorite places to eat here in Wichita, Cinnamon's Deli. We here at Eastminster love Pastor Bob so much. He was a real blessing to us! We thank God for allowing him to

Jennifer Garrett

June 14, 2017

This is a pic of some of the Eastminster Church staff girls with Bob at one of his favorite places to eat here in Wichita, Cinnamon's Deli.

We here at Eastminster love Pastor Bob so much. He was a real blessing to us! We thank God for allowing him to be a part of our lives. We will miss him greatly!

We are praying for Tacey and the whole family!
Love & Blessings,
Jennifer

Paul & Margery Zeller

June 14, 2017

Our deepest sympathy to you, Tacy, and the family on Bob's very sudden passing. Although he has gone on to glory and we will someday join him to worship God in the heavenlies, he leaves so many who are greatly saddened and will miss his presence here. Prayers continue for all of you... that you will know the comfort of our risen Savior in tangible ways in these difficult days and that you will be able to walk in His peace that passes all understanding. May God use the legacy that Bob leaves through his preaching of the gospel and his investment in so many lives bring you comfort in the days ahead. His was a life well-lived.

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May 9, 2023

Jan H. posted to the memorial.

June 12, 2018

Jodee Hunger posted to the memorial.

June 11, 2018

Gary & Jan Smith posted to the memorial.