WILMINGTON — Stephen Alan Hopple, Sr., 79, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025 at Lower Cape Fear Life Care in Wilmington, North Carolina. Born on May 26, 1945, in City of Bell, Los Angeles County, California, Steve lived a life marked by dedication to service, deep love for his family, and a steadfast commitment to his community.
Steve spent over three decades working for Lucky Stores Incorporated, where he retired as a dock foreman after 30 years of loyal service. Though his career at Lucky Stores was long and fulfilling, one of the roles he cherished most came later in life—serving as a security guard at Disneyland. For five years, he took great pride in being part of the magic that brought joy to so many visitors before retiring and relocating to North Carolina.
One of Steve’s greatest accomplishments was achieving his Second Degree Blackbelt at the age of 70 in the style of GOJU SHIN-RYU.
A proud veteran, Steve served in the United States Army National Guard for four years. His devotion to public service extended well beyond his military tenure. He volunteered with the La Habra Police Department in La Habra, California, for ten years where he was the only volunteer to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award twice. He continued his commitment to law enforcement after moving east. In October 2022, he graduated from the Brunswick County Citizen Academy and became an active volunteer with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Department. His heart belonged to first responders and law enforcement communities—a passion that guided much of his life’s work.
Faith played an important role in Steve’s later years. He found spiritual fulfillment at Crosswinds Church in Leland, North Carolina, where he became a beloved member of both the Men’s Bible Study group and the church security team. His presence was deeply valued by fellow congregants who appreciated his warmth and unwavering sense of duty.
At home, Steve found joy in simple pleasures. He loved tending to his backyard garden alongside his wife Nancy and took great pride in maintaining their lawn. Bird watching became one of his favorite pastimes—a quiet reflection of his appreciation for nature’s beauty.
Steve was a devoted husband to Nancy Hopple and a loving father and grandfather whose legacy lives on through those who knew him best. He is survived by his wife Nancy; son Steve Hopple and wife Holly; grandchildren Briana Sidell and husband Matt, Kensie Jordan and husband Brian; son Brandon Hopple and girlfriend Lisa; granddaughter Ashlynn Tesdahl and husband Jacob; stepdaughter Becky and husband Rustin; step grand children Sarah and Wyatt and inherited grandchildren Carson, Bethany, Haley, and Sophie; great-grandchildren Addison, Jacob, Annalise, Brantley, Waylon, and Emmett.
He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Francelle Hopple.
A man defined by service—to country, community, church, and family—Stephen Alan Hopple Sr.’s legacy is one of generosity and steadfast devotion. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
