. During their 70 years of marriage, they kept the flame of love alive, always having great respect for each other, truly living for one another. The life they lived together was a true love story. He was a devoted father and grandfather, and loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who adored him. He could put a smile on the face of any child, with his wit and charm. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling and working with wood as a cabinet maker. He enjoyed working in his yard and fixing anything that needed repair. He was always ready to help anyone in need, whether it was on the farm, or building and remodeling. Survivors include, his wife Vi, a daughter, Peggy (Gary) Mecklenburg, Janesville; a son John Hoppe, California; five grandchildren, Chris Hoppe, California; Paul (Cathy) Woods, Verona; Peter Woods, Michigan; Sarah (Mike) Falconer, California; Elizabeth (Josh) Enerson, Janesville; and one step grandchild, Lora Schoville, Janesville, 16 great-grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, and one great great grandson; two sisters, Betty (Edward) Seeman, DePere; Yvonne (Ron) Breuer; Minnesota; three brothers, James (Gail) Smith, Antigo; Jerry (Judy) Smith, Antigo; and Richard Smith of Aniwa; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, family and friends, including Lynn (Pat) Devlin, and James (Kathy) Woods. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister-in law, Val Smith; two step mothers: Marie Hoppe, and Marcella Smith, and stepfather, Clayton Smith. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 7, 2018, at 11 a.m. at St John Catholic Church, with Rev. Charles Hoffman officiating. Entombment will take place in the Queen of Peace Mausoleum. Visitation will be Tuesday, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Bradley Funeral Home, and from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. in Hoffmann Hall at the church. A parish wake service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. A memorial will be established for the American Heart Association. When I come to the end of my journey, and the sun has set on me, I want no tears in a gloom filled room, why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not too long. And not with your head hung low. Remember the laughter that we once shared. Miss me, but let me go. For this journey that we all must take, and each must go alone, it's all a part of the Father's plan, a step on our grand road home. When you are lonely and sick at heart, go to the friends we know, and bury your sorrows by doing a kindness. Miss me, but let me go.