Brian A Hoppe

Brian Alexander Hoppe of Kalamazoo, MI passed away on Monday, September 11, 2023 at the age of 74.  Brian was born to William Alexander and Mildred Lucille (Parker) Hoppe on June 7, 1949 in Kalamazoo.  In 1979 Brian married Elise Hoben, who preceded him in death.  Brian leaves behind his two children, Mary Christine Hoben Hoppe of Kalamazoo and Daniel Alexander Hoben Hoppe of Chicago, Illinois.  He is survived by his brother, Bruce (Judy) Hoppe, and sister, Jane (Tony) Abruzzo, many nieces and nephews and a devoted friend, his dog Duke.  He remained close to his extended family, Michael Hoben of Florida, Catherine Hoben (John Calhoun) of Peoria, AZ, Christine Hoben (Jack Berry) of Traverse City, Mary Hoben (John Huonker) of Kalamazoo and Richard (Susan) Hoben of Granville, OH.

Brian grew up in Kalamazoo and graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School.  Brian attended Western Michigan University, where he initially focused his studies on one of his earliest and longest passions, music.  Prior to graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army where he served as military police officer. Following his service he attended Michigan State University where he graduated with a degree in criminal justice and then started his career as a police officer at Western Michigan University.

After working his way to detective in law enforcement, Brian discovered another passion, computers.  He returned to school and obtained a masters degree in computer science from Western Michigan University and began his career at The Upjohn Company where he worked in information technology for 26 years before retiring.

Brian had immense musical talent and loved playing the piano, guitar, banjo, and, most of all, the drums.  He taught piano and the drums from a young age, and played in various bands and orchestras.  Later in life he developed a passion for travelling, crossing the country in his RV with Duke.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of West Michigan. 

According to his wishes, there will be no public memorial, but the family will be hosting a private memorial gathering at a later date.