William F. Hopbell

A lifelong resident of Turtle Creek, age 96, passed in his Turtle Creek home on Monday, March 25, 2024, surrounded by his family. Bill was born in Turtle Creek on April 10, 1927.

Bill was the beloved husband for 59 years of Marilyn R. (Ross) Hopbell, who preceded him in death.

He was the loving and revered father of Sharon Hopbell of Turtle Creek, Julie Van Atta of Seven Fields, William R. of Turtle Creek, Marcelyn (Bob) Yoho of McCandless and Maureen Hopbell of Seven Fields and the late Eileen Church.

Bill was the treasured grandfather of Michael (Marie) Church, Gina (Jake) Repp, Johanna Van Atta, Gennie Van Atta, Robert and Victoria Yoho.

He was the proud great-grandfather of Hunter Schroder, Ryder Repp and Jamison Repp.

Bill was the brother of Anna Marie Burdis and the late Mary Louise Boyd and late Catherine Hopbell.

He is also survived by numerous and much-loved nieces and nephews.

Bill was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII and though he was inducted before the war ended, he served in occupied Germany following the armistice. His duties included serving as a guard where German prisoners were housed. In retrospect, it was his first experience in law enforcement.

After the war, Bill became a police officer for Turtle Creek and retired as Chief of Police, serving his community for more than 35 years. For 23 years, Bill attended night classes at the University of Pittsburgh while balancing his work and family duties, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Science in 1973. Due to his time spent on campus, Bill was a passionate Pitt Panther fan.  Combining his education with his professional career, for a few years, Bill taught criminal justice at Allegheny County Community College, Boyce Campus. He was also a lifelong member of St. Colman Parish in Turtle Creek and served on the Turtle Creek Historical Society.  Bill, an avid thespian, also appeared in numerous plays and musicals, particularly at the McKeesport Little Theatre, where he once served as President of the Board of Directors. 

All are welcome on Good Friday from 6-8 p.m. and Holy Saturday from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home, Turtle Creek/Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., at James St., Turtle Creek, 412-823-9350.

Mass of Christian Burial in St. Colman Church (St. Joseph the Worker Parish) on Monday at 10 a.m.

Bill will be laid to rest with Military Honors in St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph the Worker Parish in honor of Bill’s devotion to St. Colman Church.