Vernon James Hoopman, 53, of South Range, died Monday, November 21, 2011 at Essentia-St. Mary's Hospice in Duluth

Vernon was born in Grand Rapids Minn. on March 15, 1958 to Vernadell McKinney and Vernon A. Hoopman

Vernon enjoyed swimming, fishing, riding his bike and pulling kids in the wagon. He loved anything that had to do with Elvis, the TV show Happy Days, especially Fonzie, and John Wayne. He had won many ribbons and medals competing in the Special Olympics. Vernon also loved to dance and was the Prince at his Prom.

He is survived by his sister, Linda (David) Murphy and their children, April (Anthony Miller), Adam and Rebecca Murphy; his sister, Teresa (Lowell) Levine and their children Jeremy (Misty), Brent (Tiffany), Mitchell (Kayla) Francisco, and Tina and Tonya; his sister, Cheryl Hoopman and her children, Mik Blum and Lili (Monte) McKercher; his stepmother, Marian Hoopman and her sons, Don (Anna), Chuck (Chris) and Jim (Cindy) Root; and his aunts, uncles, cousins and many great nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Dec. 10, 2011 at 4 p.m. at the Hawthorne Assembly of God.

Vernon's family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Essentia-St. Mary's Hospice and to all those who helped Vernon throughout his life.

Downs Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.