
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
My sincere condolences, just found this obituary. Our family knew the Hopeman’s back in the 60’s and 70’s. Remember Greg fondly, as a very kind man. My mom grew up with his mom in Oklahoma (Barbara Morris Wright). What a very kind and wonderful family. So sorry for your family’s loss. Randy Wright
Randy Wright
Greg was a great next-door neighbor. He was always so kind and had such a great smile. To Kari and all family members and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. I had hoped to be able to attend the funeral, but I’m so sorry I won’t be able to.
Deleise Conner
I was lucky to have Greg as my freshman roommate at TU, and even luckier to call him my friend and fraternity brother. We were both high school wrestlers and full of energy—maybe too much sometimes. Some of our Kappa Sigma brothers will surely remember the infamous "pink bellies" we dished out in the house, always with laughter and brotherhood at the core. Greg had a magnetic personality and a deep love for Kappa Sigma that never faded. He served our fraternity not just in college, but well beyond, even as an officer at HQ, always reaching out, always rallying support. Though we hadn’t seen each other in years, Greg’s presence never really left my life. His love for TU, for our brotherhood, and for people in general, was unmatched. He always had something kind to say and brought out the best in those around him. I respected him deeply, and I’ll miss his positivity, loyalty, and that unshakable “can-do” spirit. Rest easy, brother. You left your mark, and we’ll carry your memory forward with pride. AEKΔB
Jim Wilburn
Greg was my Kappa Sigma Fraternity Brother. Although we were from two separate Chapters (Epsilon-Mu, Tulsa and Beta-Nu Kentucky) we developed a strong friendship and were able to establish initiatives that would provide significant benefits to future generations of Kappa Sigma Brothers. We established the Heritage Society through the Kappa Sigma Endowment Fund. Greg’s expertise and vision made that program a success. I always looked forward to seeing Greg and Kari at Fraternity events. His spirit lives on in each of us. Kari remains as a most important part of our fraternal family. AEKDB Mic Wilson Executive Director Emeritus Kappa Sigma Fraternity.
Mitchell Wilson
Greg was a good friend and trusted colleague at both Merrill and UBS. He was incredibly positive and served as a role model and mentor to countless Advisors throughout his career and I will miss him. My very best to his family in these difficult times.
John Bush
Greg served as manager of our Wilson, NC Merrill Lynch office early in my Merrill career. His wisdom, character, enthusiasm, & compassion for people was very impactful during his tenure with us. I pray for God's peace & comfort for his family & friends in the days ahead. G. Parker Davis Senior Financial Advisor Merrill Lynch / Wilson, NC
G. Parker Davis
Greg was a good man with a big heart who generally cared for the people in his life. It did not matter whether the connection was personal or professional, he had a genuine interest in you as a person. He was a gifted speaker as well. He told a story about his life growing up, and receiving a red wagon one year for Christmas, that had our ML management training class in tears. So sorry to learn of his passing. God bless. Peter Kaldis
Peter Kaldis
I knew Greg for only a few years. I met Greg during a kappa Sigma function in Charlottesville, Va. As a true brother, he introduced himself to me. He was genuinely a nice man and was always a pleasure to discuss whatever it may be at that time. As difficult his physical situation became……never did he have a bad outlook, always a smile, always a pleasure to be around. Greg will be missed by so many people. I only wish I would have known him longer than I did! Godspeed brother. You are in a much better place! We are all fortunate to have you watching over all of us. A.E.K.D.B. Lionel L. de la Houssaye Jr. D.V.M Worthy Grand Treasurer
Lionel de la Houssaye He.
I’ve known Greg since the move of him Mother from Edmond to Grandlake as he and I became furniture jockeys for a day. He was a character that leaves an impression that speaks well for him. Sorry for the loss of Greg.
Ray Smoot
I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Greg at UBS for many years. He was a gracious individual who leaves a legacy of kindness and caring for others. God Bless.
Chris Kurdziel
Always there to support FUNraising for our Monkey Island Community. Shared lots lots laughs and appreciation for his insights as the Monkey Island Assn tackles various challenges. Will be missed. God bless your immortal soul
Christal Lavery
Greg was a remarkable human being and a devoted father, whose warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. I had the pleasure of meeting him briefly in Hawaii while he was visiting Amber, sometime around December 2008. Though our time together was short, we stayed in touch through Facebook over the years, and he never failed to reach out with kind words of congratulations or support when it mattered most.
T.C. Bowers
Greg Hopeman was the most courageous man I’ve ever known. He faced adversity head on, with the grit and determination of a marathon runner, mentally mapping the obstacles that lay ahead and pacing himself for the last mile. And when the road seemed too long, Kari carried him.🌹God speed your weary soul to eternal rest, my friend. You have already won the race.❤️❤️
Cari Williams
I worked with Greg at UBS back in the day. What a consummate gentleman and professional. He will be missed at the firm.
Andrea Rothberg
So sorry to hear this, Greg was a very kind hearted beautiful person. He will be missed by many. God Bless
Bob Hart
Q: What will you never forget about Gregory? A: Greg always had a kind reply when greeting someone. He was so very intelligent and on the move. Always a champion on the football field.
Beverly Cook