Douglas D. Hopper

Douglas D. Hopper, age 69, of Hockessin, DE, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 11, 2018.

Doug was born in Chambersburg, PA, son of the late Donald and Janet (Sprow) Hopper. He grew up in New Castle and was a graduate of William Penn High School, where he excelled in football, basketball and baseball. He then went on to the University of Delaware, earning his bachelor’s degree in economics and was a starting pitcher for the baseball team. He was proud to be a member of the 1970 squad that advanced to the College World Series, and had the opportunity to pitch in the Cape Cod League during the summer.

Sports were an integral part of Doug’s life, even after his high school and college years. He went on to play semi-pro baseball for several years; coached his son and his friends through little league, and other sports; and enjoyed golf as one of his favorite pastimes. He especially cherished the friendships and camaraderie of his former teammates and the families of the kids he coached.

His affinity for sports was only surpassed by the love he had for his family and friends. Doug is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis (Lumb); his son, Jeff and his wife, Jackie; his sister, Kingsley Shaffer and her husband, Henry; a host of nieces, nephews and members of his extended family; and countless friends whether connected through high school, college, his ATO fraternity brothers, coaching, or golf. Doug will be remembered as the life of the party and for his outgoing and friendly personality. He will be dearly missed.

A viewing will be held from 5:00 – 8:00pm on Monday, July 16, 2018 at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, where a funeral service will take place the following day at 11:00am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Doug’s memory can be made to the University of Delaware Men’s Baseball Program via Gifts Processing, 83 E. Main Street, 3rd Floor, Newark, DE 19716.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Douglas D. Hopper, please visit our floral store.