Harry H. Hopla

October 4th, 1936 - December 28th, 2025

Memorial

In Loving Memory

Harry H. HoplaOctober 4, 1936 - December 28, 2025

Harry H. Hopla was born on October 4, 1936, in Arco, Idaho, to Lydia and Leo E. Hopla. His family, including his sister and three brothers, moved to the Willamette Valley in 1951 and lived in Brownsville, Oregon.

Soon after graduating from high school, Harry joined the U.S. Air Force. In 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, Billie Jo Barnes. Shortly after, Harry was stationed in Japan for two years.

After his discharge from the Air Force, the couple moved to Portland, Oregon, where Harry continued his education in computer science. Following another move to Seattle, WA, Harry and Billie Jo welcomed their daughter, Donna, and son, Steve.

In 1965, the family moved to Newark, CA, where Harry worked at Stanford Research Institute for 32 years. Upon his retirement in 1997, he enjoyed having time to play golf and travel the world. Harry and Billie Jo were married for 69 years.

Harry’s family adored his fun-loving, kind nature and willingness to lend a hand. All will miss his warm presence. Harry is survived by wife, Billie Jo, daughter Donna, son Steve (Holly), grandchildren Drew, Robin, Clare, and Shane, brother Doyle (Barbara), and sister-in-law Diane.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Harry’s life with a heartfelt message.

Cindy Troche-Ebbers

Mr. Hopla was a truly remarkable person and has left an impact on my life forever. Not only was he my Best Friend's father; he was a co worker, a guiding light, and source of joy throughout my life. I fondly remember how he helped me secure my first "real" job at SRI. One that came with benefits and weekends off - something I will always be grateful for. Working alongside him was always a pleasure thanks to his cheerful nature and the fun he brought into the workplace. He often tried to get me to call him "Harry" at work but he was always "Mr. Hopla" to me. His love for his "computer room" was just one of the many ways he shared his passion and joy with those around him. Mr Hopla's kindness, positive spirit, and love for his family will be deeply missed, but I take comfort in knowing that he is in Paradise - happy, whole, and at peace, just as he always made others feel. I look forward to meeting up again in heaven.

Published January 12th, 2026

Al Nagy

I worked with Harry at SRI International for many years. Harry and i both lived in Newark so we began carpooling. You learn a lot about a person while waiting in traffic together. With Harry, it was about family and how important Jo, Donna and Steve were to him. Those at SRI who worked for Harry always appreciated his fairness and calm demeanor. I know this is a tough time for the family but know Harry is now in the arms of Jesus and how much better heaven will be with his presence.

Published January 11th, 2026