Walter Hopman

In Loving Memory of Walter Hopman

Walter Hopman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, sadly left our world on July 11, 2025, at the age of 72, after a life richly lived and dedicated to his family.

Born in South Philadelphia and raised in an Orthodox Jewish family, Walt later moved to Northeast Philadelphia, where his vibrant personality and many talents quickly became apparent. He was sharp, stylish, and full of charm—a natural performer with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing that earned him the nickname “Hollywood.”

Walt began his musical journey on violin, but when the Beatles arrived, he picked up the guitar and never looked back. He channeled John Lennon, memorized nearly every Beatles song, and infused his performances with the soul of Elvis Presley, charisma of Tom Jones, and the grit of the Kinks. Whether on stage or at a family gathering, music was one of the many ways Walt brought people together, infusing joy and harmony into every event.

Professionally, Walt was equally magnetic. He worked at Berry’s Haberdashery, where his impeccable style shone, and later at Weed Chevrolet, where he was known for his ability to close the deal. Wherever he went, his unforgettable presence lit up the room.

Walt is survived by his devoted wife, Gina Hopman (nee Blanker); his loving children, Allison (Joe Tyer) and Adam (Cynthia, nee Velez); and his cherished grandchildren, Harper Hopman, Paris Hopman, and Joey Tyer. He is also survived by his sister, Jen Buschel (Marc), brother Nathan, sister-in-law Debbie Kay (Marc), nieces Brittany Rosenberg (Matt), Ashley Kay, and Arielle Knoblauch (Bryan), nephew Kenny Buschel (Lori), and his father-in-law, Ari Blanker. He was predeceased by his brother, Alan Hopman, as well as his parents’ George Hopman and Klara Hopman (nee Kern).

Walt loved his family fiercely. He was a protective older brother, a loving and devoted husband, an affectionate, steady and encouraging father, and a joyful grandfather who lit up at every milestone. He took special pride in his children’s and grandchildren’s achievements and never missed a chance to encourage accomplishments or cheer from the sidelines.

A true Philadelphia sports fan, Walt passionately rooted for the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers. He was known by family and friends for his deep loyalty and dry wit - a sense of humor that could lift any moment.

Though he faced health challenges, Walt’s joyful and kind spirit never dimmed. His resilience, warmth, and wisdom remained a constant source of strength and comfort to those around him. Walt will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his warm heart, his humor, and the music he brought into the world.

A graveside service will be held at Shalom Memorial Park on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate the life of a man who brought love, laughter, and joy to everyone he met.

In lieu of flowers, Donate to Keep Holocaust Memory Alive | United States Holocaust Memorial Museum https://donate.ushmm.org/6hRw6kqugUOvJLNKCIbD1g2 as a tribute to Walt or American Heart Association - All You Need Is Love - A Tribute to Walt https://ahatribute.funraise.org/fundraiser/walt-hopman