Gordon Hopper

1926 - 2017

Gordon Hopper

Salinas - Gordon Hopper, January 8, 1926 - November 24, 2017

Gordon was born in Auburn, New York to Gordon and Alice Hopper and was raised there with his sisters Hoppie and Virginia. After graduating high school in New York, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps as the United States had entered the second World War. He served in the Pacific theater from 1943 to 1946 and was stationed in Okinawa after the Japanese surrender. Though reserved in speaking about his service during the war, like many in his generation, it was evident that experience had significant impact on his character. It shaped his wonderfully wry sense of humor and sincere optimism.

After his discharge, Gordon moved to Hollywood, California and worked for a time at the Department of Motor Vehicles, which began his life's career in the automobile industry. He settled in Salinas, California and became an accomplished businessman selling cars with a smile and running a warehouse development company, which he operated successfully for 35 years. He was a membership chairman of the Salinas City Watch Dog committee that reviewed and generated city policy and was also a member of the Salinas Elks Lodge #614 for 40 years.

Gordon was an extremely kind, generous, and sincere man. He made a point to engage everyone he met and always took a genuine interest in their lives. He was always first to offer his assistance because he truly wanted to see people succeed and help make the world a better place. His insight was second to none. For that reason he was loved by many who would do anything for him, just as he had done for so many others.

Gordon is survived by his sister Virginia Hitchens, nieces Charlene Squires, Daniel Windschauer, and Smitty Smith. Though he requested no visitation or services there was a celebration of his life on Sunday, February 11th. He will be sincerely missed.