Russell J. Hopper, Jr.

Russell J. "Bumpy" Hopper, Jr., 81, passed away at home on January 31, 2016 following an extended illness. He was born in Massillon on January 23, 1935 to the late Russell J. and Edna (Owens) Hopper, Sr. Bumpy was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He worked for Republic Steel, retiring in 1981 and was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. He was well known in the Harness Horse Racing Circuit, raising, training and racing Standardbred Horses at Northfield Park. The family chef, he was referred to lovingly as Bumpy Crocker. Russ was an avid fisherman and sports fan. He was dedicated to his family. Russ is survived by his children, Carol Ann (Steve) Cooper of Jackson Township, Myrna "Penny" (Jim) Masters of Canal Fulton, Rusty (Lisa) Hopper of Massillon, Steve (Marsha) Bubenchik of Navarre and Ted Bubenchik of North Lawrence; fifteen grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; sister, Carol J. Hopper of Massillon; and many close family and friends. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Helen (Lantzer) Hopper; great-granddaughter, Haley; and a special sister, Helen Englehart. Friends may call at the Paquelet Funeral Home on Thursday, February 4, 2016 from 5:00pm-8:00pm and one hour prior to a funeral service to be held in the funeral home on Friday, February 5, 2016 at 10:30am. Burial will be in Brookfield Cemetery. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.paquelet.com The family wishes to thank the Staff of Harbor Light Hospice, Dr. I. Braar, Dr. Kerrie David and Dr. M. Haut for their loving care. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory 330-833-3222