Marilyn Caroleen (Duval) Hopper

Marilyn Caroleen Hopper, 80, of Walton, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025, at The Waters of Peru.

She was born on March 5, 1945 in Sycamore, IL to the late Emma (Klatt) Duval and Ernest Duval. She married Daniel Hopper on November 9, 1985.

Marilyn graduated from Concordia University (St. Paul, MN) in 1967 and began her elementary teaching career that same year at a Lutheran school in Chattanooga, TN. She came to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Peru, IN in 1978 and taught 1st and 2nd grades for 25 years. During her time at St. John’s, she received a Master’s Degree from Indiana University-Kokomo.

Marilyn was a sweet soul who desired everyone to feel included. Her family was extremely important, and she loved to cook and entertain them as often as she could in an effort to keep the family connected. She was devoted to her church and served there in many different capacities. One of her favorite activities was singing alto in the church choir where she shared her musical talent and lovely singing voice.

Whether in Chicago or at home, Marilyn loved seeing her grandchildren. She especially loved playing games and reading with them when they were little. Marilyn was an avid reader herself, including being faithful to daily devotions and Bible reading to learn more about her Savior Jesus Christ.

In addition to her husband, she is also survived by her son, Matthew Gruel (and his wife Cynthia) of Batavia, IL; and three step-children, Jeff Hopper, Kathy Hopper, and Terry Hopper, all of Peru. She has two grandsons, Cameron and Caleb Gruel. Additionally, on the Hopper side of the family she has 12 grandchildren (plus two deceased), 33 great-grandchildren (plus two deceased), and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her beloved sister Elizabeth Duval of Vacaville, CA.

Visitation will be held at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana, on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 4-6pm. An additional visitation will take place at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 181 West Main Street, Peru, Indiana, on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 9-10am. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 10am with Pastor Joshua Dub officiating. Following the service, a brunch will be held at St. Johns. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 181 West Main Street, Peru, Indiana, 46970, where she was an active member for nearly 50 years.

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