Alfred J. Hopf

SAUGERTIES - Alfred “Al” John David Hopf, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and community pillar, passed away peacefully at his home on January 17, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born on April 7, 1932,  in Hempstead, Long Island, Al was the son of the late Alfred and Mary Hopf. He grew up in Floral Park, alongside his siblings, John, Mary, and Patricia before moving to Saugerties at age 12.  He completed his early education at St. Mary of the Snow, and later graduated from Saugerties High School in 1951. 

Al proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Third Class Petty Officer. He was an instrumental flight instructor, a role that reflected his skill, dedication, and leadership. After being honorably discharged in 1956, he returned to civilian life with a continued commitment to service.

In his professional life, he worked for the Village of Saugerties Police Department, the New York State Police, Smith Hardware and True Value Hardware of Kingston. He could build or fix anything. 

In 1959, Al married the love of his life,  Joan Granwehr. Together, they shared nearly 64 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family. They raised six children: Christopher (Joanne) Hopf, Judy (William) Hart, Stephen (Dori) Hopf, Bethany (Gregory Bennett) Hopf, Peter (Amy) Hopf, and Michael (Stacey) Hopf. Al was a proud and devoted grandfather to 15 grandchildren: Stephen, Mathew, Abby, Vanessa, Michelle, Sumar, Shane, Kimberly, Marcus, Veronica, Owen, Colin, Grace, Kathryn, and Joshua. They will miss their grandfather's guidance, support, and sense of humor. He also cherished his four great-grandchildren: Hunter, Tanner, Brayden, and Kyla.

Al's true passions were found in his hobbies. A master gardener and farmer. When not tending to his yard, he could be found crafting in his cellar, transforming wood into beautiful creations. He was happiest outside, camping under the stars, casting a line in his favorite fishing spot, or hosting epic family gatherings.

Al’s faith and sense of service guided every step of his life. He served as Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 36, sharing his love of camping and leadership with young minds. At St. Mary of the Snow RC Church, he was a fixture of the community, active in the Holy Name Society, the Catholic Youth Organization, and countless fundraisers (where he was known to be as handy with a spatula as he was with a hammer).

A proud member of the Saugerties Knights of Columbus, Al wore many hats, including Past Grand Knight and Past Faithful Navigator. Whether organizing golf outings, flipping chicken parm, or serving his fellow veterans through the American Legion Post #72, Al did it all with a spirit of generosity.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hudson Valley Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Al’s final days.

While Al may have set down his tools for the last time, his legacy of love, laughter, and living life to the fullest will carry on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, located at the corner of John and Lafayette Streets, Saugerties. A Funeral Procession will form at 9:15 AM Thursday at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Mary of the Snow Roman Catholic Church. Burial with military honors will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery.  Family suggests donations in his memory be made to Catholic Charities or Hudson Valley Hospice.

Expressions of condolence may be shared with the family on Al’s Tribute Wall at SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alfred J. Hopf, please visit our floral store.