In Memory of Rich Hoppe

Richard (Rich) Tedd Hoppe, aged 75, passed away peacefully at home on May 7th , 2023 in Corona del Mar, CA. Rich was born in Los Angeles, CA to Art and Lucille Hoppe. Rich attended Flintridge Men’s Prep School and John Marshall High School before graduating from the University of Southern California with a BS degree in Business Administration. Rich later earned his MBA at Cal State Fullerton. While at USC, Rich joined the Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity, was a member of the Trojan Squires and Knights, and rowed for the Freshman and Varsity Crew Teams. 

Rich met the love of his life, Carol Ann Gay of Anaheim, when set up on a blind date. They married shortly after graduation and relocated to Orange County. They were married just a few months shy of 54 years ago and have resided in Corona del Mar for 52 years. 

His entire professional career was with Bank of America, where he specialized in serving agricultural clients in Southern California. Rich is survived by his wife, their two sons, Brooks (Kate) and Blair (Jacqueline),and seven granddaughters, Camryn, Morgan, Brennan, Caroline, Simone, Catherine and Sienna, as well as his brother Mark. Rich was predeceased by two older half-brothers, Kenneth and Larry Hoppe. 

Rich was born to be a father. Not only did he raise two fine sons of his own, but when his own father unexpectedly passed away in 1960, at the age of twelve, he became a huge help to his mother and a father figure to his young brother. Rich was all about family, and it showed in everything he did. From Indian Guides to supporting his sons’ high school and collegiate athletic careers, he also relished watching his granddaughters in their own athletic pursuits. An imposing figure at 6’8” tall, Rich portrayed Santa Claus in full regalia for many years on Christmas Eve visiting many of his friends’ homes to entertain their young children.

Rich was a lifelong LA Dodgers and USC sports fan. He was a member of USC’s Cardinal and Gold support group, and supported the Trojan Volleyball and Crew programs. He loved Marines and supporting the military. 

A memorial service will be held for Rich on Sunday, June 4th at the Community Church, Congregational located at:

611 Heliotrope Avenue in Corona del Mar at 1:00PM. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to: Operation Help A Hero

1 Caminito Altura

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688

Donations made in Rich's memory will be used to support active duty, gold star and medically retired military families.