With faith in God’s promise of eternal life, we announce the passing of Robert Dean Hoopes who entered into the presence of the Lord on October 29, 2026, at the age of 78.
Born April 22, 1948 in Stafford, Kansas to Ernest and Jennie Hoopes. Robert lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service. He found strength and guidance through scripture and prayer and was an active member of faith, education, and town communities. Robert touched many lives through kindness, compassion, and unwavering trust in God.
Robert graduated from high school in Edson, Kansas, and attended Jennie’s alma mater, Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas. There he met Anne Sale whom he married in 1969. He earned his master’s degree in mathematics from Kansas University in 1973. Robert farmed and then taught in Wichita County, Kansas for fifteen years. During that time, he and his wife Anne had four children Tara, Arthur, Katie, and Benjamin. In 1988, they divorced. Robert moved to northeast Kansas with his wife Betty and began teaching mathematics at Horton High School. This position evolved into computer tech for the Horton district. Robert and Betty have lived in Atchison, Holton, and their favorite town, Robinson, where they have been active members of the community for thirty years. One of Robert’s greatest joys was sharing faith and love of God with the children and youth of the community.
He was a beloved husband, father, and friend and is survived by his wife, Betty and his adoring pup Hope. Robert is also survived by his three siblings: Linda, Richard, and Donna, as well as his four children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jennie and Ernest Hoopes, many loved aunts, uncles, grandparents, friends, and devoted canine friend Joymaker.
Though Robert will be deeply missed, we rejoice in the assurance that he now rests in God’s eternal peace.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25)
A celebration of Robert’s faith and life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Pastors Tom Stone and Shane Spangler will officiate. Graveside services and interment will be held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Hooker Cemetery, Adams, Nebraska
Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Tuesday where the family will meet from 6-7:30 that evening.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Amberwell Hospice or St. Jude’s Children Hospital left in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com
