ROBERT EUGENE HOPFER JR.
Robert (Bob) Hopfer Jr., 85, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, at St. Joseph Hospital in Marshfield surrounded by family following a short illness.
Robert was born Oct. 13, 1940, to Robert Sr. and Jessie (Barr) Hopfer in San Diego, CA. He received elementary education at St Mary’s Catholic Church and graduated from Neillsville High School in 1959. After graduation, Robert proudly joined the Navy (following his father’s footsteps) and was honorably discharged in 1963. On April 15, 1967, Robert married Sylvia Kuhn at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. They shared almost 55 years of marriage together. Robert was employed by A.O. Smith in Milwaukee as a laborer for 40 years.
Besides spending time with his four children, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. Also, he spent many hours doing woodworking, gardening, and riding his motorcycle. Robert and Sylvia took several trips: Nashville, Branson, and to the western states. In 2004 they moved back to Neillsville to retire. Robert was a proud member of Neillsville American Legion Post 73 for 20 years. Robert, along with Sylvia, spent many hours volunteering at the American Legion for several years.
Besides his parents, Robert was predeceased by his loving wife, Sylvia, on Feb. 28, 2022.
He is survived by his family, which includes his children: Melissa (Tim) Paisley of Union Grove, William (Amy) of Spencer, Jennifer Goetzke of West Bend and Timothy (Debbie) of Milwaukee. Also, he is survived by his grandchildren: Laura, Adam, Jenna, James, Jessica, Emilie and Deven including a soon-to-be great grandson: Kane Robert. His surviving siblings included: David (Lorna) Hopfer, Wisconsin Rapids, Nancy (Gary) Hayes, Wausau, and Susan Hopfer, Stevens Point, along with many nieces and nephews, in-laws, and friends.
The family wants to extend a heartful thank you to the Granton First Responders and Neillsville Ambulance for their service.
Interment of ashes along with military honors will be at the Neillsville Cemetery at 11 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life reception at Neillsville American Legion Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026.
Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family with arrangements.