Marvin Hopper, born on February 4, 1944, in St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, surrounded by his family. The son of Richard and Phyllis Hopper, and brother to Darrell, Marvin grew up in Auburn, Nebraska, where he discovered his love for sports and met the love of his life, Phyllis Rebuck, during his sophomore year at Auburn High School.
A stand out athlete, Marvin broke numerous school records in football, basketball, and track. He was honored as an All-American in high school and played in the prestigious Shrine Bowl. His athletic achievements earned him a place in the Auburn High School Hall of Fame, a testament to his talent and dedication.
Marvin continued his athletic career at Peru State College, where he excelled in basketball and was inducted into the college’s Hall of Fame. He graduated from Peru State in 1966 and embarked on a 40-year career with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Kansas City as a research chemist. Marvin became a renowned expert in pesticides, publishing numerous influential studies and speaking on the topic worldwide.
On April 17, 1965, Marvin married Phyllis, and together they moved to Kansas City to begin their family and his career. They raised three children: Annette, David, and Mark, and later welcomed six grandchildren: Taylor, Emily, Ashley, Joseph, Alexa, and Owen. Marvin’s family continued to grow, blessing him with three great-grandchildren: Adeline, John Henry, and Brooks.
A man of Christian faith, Marvin lived by strong values of family, honesty, loyalty, and integrity. His passion for sports extended beyond his youth. Throughout his life, he competed in slow and fast-pitch softball, basketball, tennis, and golf. In his middle years, Marvin discovered a deep love for tennis and became a well-known figure on the courts of North Kansas City and Old Pike Country Club. His energy and enthusiasm for the game, particularly in doubles with his partner Ken Aiken, were infectious
After retiring from the FDA in 2006, Marvin devoted his time to golf, another sport he grew to love. He could often be found walking the courses at Liberty Hills and Shoal Creek, cherishing rounds with his friends and sons. Golf trips with loved ones brought him immense joy.
In 2015, Marvin was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a battle he faced with the same determination and spirit that defined his life. Phyllis, his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, was by his side through it all, offering unwavering love and support.
Marvin will be remembered as a fighter, an extraordinary athlete, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be forever missed but never forgotten.
