Steven E. Hoppe

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Steven Edwin Hoppe, 71, a cherished resident of Watertown, WI. He passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 25, 2024, surrounded by his three children and their mother after a courageous battle with cancer. Steve was known for his infectious laugh, unwavering work ethic, kindness to all, and dedication to his family and friends. 

Steve was born on September 16, 1952, the son of Elinor (Higgins) and Edwin Hoppe in Watertown, WI. He was a lifetime parishioner at St. Bernard’s Church where he also attended grade school as a child. 

After graduating from Watertown High School, Steve embarked on a 50+ year career lending his talents to Johnson Controls and Baso Gas Products. He was a well-known figure in Watertown and surrounding communities as a sports official for basketball, baseball and football.

Steve was a lifelong sports fan, favoring Marquette basketball, and was a local legend in his younger years within the softball community. Later in life he took up golf and became a loyal member at Horicon Hills Golf Club. 

Steve had three children, Matt, Megan, and Erin. He was a supportive father and loved attending concerts with his kids, taking them to see Bruce Springsteen on numerous occasions. In 2018 he partially retired and spent more time playing golf, officiating sports, and seeing his grandchildren. He loved their personalities and seeing the joy on their faces when he brought them donuts.

Steve was proceeded in death by his mother Elinor, father Edwin, many aunts and uncles, close family friends, and his brother-in-law, Joe Cunniff.

He is survived by his former wife, Catherine, children Matt (Kaia) Hoppe, Megan (Jeff) Klaus, and Erin (Nathaniel) Chin as well as his adoring grandchildren Otto, Elinor, Augustine, Bennett, and Leo, his sister, Nancy Cunniff, nephew Patrick, nieces Kelsey and Emily, and aunt Anne Phelps.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at Rainbow Hospice, Marquardt Manor, SSM Health, and Watertown Regional Medical Center. In lieu of flowers, received donations will be given to the Watertown Area Community Foundation to be designated towards a nursing scholarship for a Watertown High School student.

A visitation will be held at Schmutlzer-Vick Funeral Home on Thursday, May 9^th from 4-7pm. To celebrate Steve’s life, a funeral service will take place on Friday, May 10^th at 11am at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, with a 10am visitation preceding. A private burial will be held at St. Bernard’s cemetery at a later date.