Obituary of Gregory Alan Hopeman

Gregory A. Hopeman passed peacefully on April 10, 2025, at home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 72. Born in South Oklahoma City on February 22, 1953, Greg was the youngest child of Lloyd Raymond Hopeman and Marjorie Lee (Simpson) Hopeman.  

He is survived by his wife, Kari L. Filson of Tulsa, OK; daughter, Amber Lee Hopeman and granddaughters, Madeline Lee Stoner and Violet Beatrix Stoner of Smyrna, GA; brother, Richard (Ric) L. Hopeman and his wife Dolores of Mustang, OK; niece, Jennifer J. (Hopeman) Kralles and nephew, Todd A. Hopeman; and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and nephew, Troy. 

Greg’s early years were spent in a close-knit community where childhood meant open spaces, neighborhood games, and imaginative adventures. He attended Moore Public Schools and was active in church life at First Methodist Church of Moore—known even then for his sharp mind and mischievous spirit.  Diagnosed with a speech-related learning disability in first grade, Greg adapted by becoming a sharp listener and strong communicator. He excelled socially, was elected Student Council President, and forged deep connections through football, which he played passionately through high school. He earned All-Conference honors and briefly walked on at the University of Tulsa before a brain seizure ended his football career.  At TU, Greg found brotherhood in Kappa Sigma, holding leadership roles and later serving nationally on the Endowment Fund Board. He remained a proud TU alum, actively supporting scholarship efforts and serving on boards, most notably as president of the Friends of Finance and chair of TU Uncorked.

After graduating from TU, Greg married Jennifer (Shell) Hopeman. In 1978, they welcomed their daughter Amber—the joy of Greg’s life and a bond he treasured above all else. Greg worked alongside his brother in the family business, Hopeman Equipment Company, before launching a successful financial advising career. He held leadership roles with Merrill Lynch and UBS across the country, including North Carolina, Kansas City, Boston, Boise, and finally Tulsa—achieving his goal of managing major branches and mentoring others.  In 2020, Greg married Kari Filson, his partner in life and adventure. Greg and Kari shared a love for boating, travel, and fitness. Their bond deepened after both suffered severe injuries in a serious motorcycle accident in 2019, working together in each other’s recovery. Shortly after their marriage, Greg was diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

A spinal stroke left him paralyzed, but his resolve never faltered. With Kari's unwavering care, he faced his challenges with grit and grace, working tirelessly in rehab and maintaining his signature optimism.  Greg was deeply proud of his daughter Amber and adored his granddaughters, Madeline and Violet. Surrounded by love and support, he spent his final years with humor, strength, and unshakable spirit.

A celebration of Greg’s life will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 3:30 p.m., in the ONEOK Club at H. A. Chapman Stadium at the University of Tulsa. Parking is available in the Lorton Village parking lot. The celebration of life will include a formal service, followed by hors d’oeuvres and drinks until 7:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the following:

Kappa Sigma Endowment Fund for the benefit of the Epsilon Mu Scholarship Leadership Award, Attn:Brad Bailey, 1610 Scottsville Rd, Charlottesville, VA  22902 

The University of Tulsa Scholarship Fund, 800 S Tucker Drive, Tulsa, OK  74104

The Center For Individuals with Physical Challenges, 815 S Utica Ave, Tulsa, OK  74104

Ninde Funeral & Cremation | (918) 742-5556 | ninde.com