Carolyn V. Hoppa

Born in Silver Creek, N.Y., the daughter of Leonard and Mary (nee Privitera) Barreca.

After graduating from high school and passing a rigorous civil service exam with the highest score, she accepted a secretarial position at Buffalo State College where she met her future husband, Tony.

After Tony’s graduation and their marriage in 1955, they moved to Gowanda, N.Y. to begin their family and careers. Both were employed at the Gowanda Central School District, Tony as an Industrial Arts Teacher, and Carol as an Assistant Librarian.

In the early years, she also had a successful part time business as a Fashion Director for Sarah Coventry Jewelry, hosting home parties. In later years, she worked part time at the Rectory of St. Joseph’s RC Church. And in between, she enjoyed being a poll worker for the Erie County Board of Elections.

Carol was known for her cooking and baking skills, and everyone had their own favorite requests that kept her busy. Passionately creative, she enjoyed and excelled at tole painting, gardening, interior decorating, craft making, and sewing. She had a strong faith, and practiced it daily by praying for others and serving their needs.

Married for 67 years, Carol was preceded in death by her husband Tony, and her siblings: three brothers and five sisters. She is survived by her children: Bill (Katy) Hoppa, Jim (Diana) Hoppa, Betsy (Bobbie) Walker, Tony (Jill) Hoppa; her grandchildren: Jennifer (Samir) Bootwala, Michael Hoppa, Christopher Hoppa, Carrie (Curt) Moseley, Callie Walker, Jake Hoppa, Jerry Hoppa; her great-grandchildren: Nate Moseley, Mia Moseley.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday July 9, 2026 at 11:00am from the St. Joseph’s RC Church East Main St. Gowanda, (please assemble at church) with interment to follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery Gowanda, where Carolyn will be laid to rest next to her husband Anthony.

Carol’s zest for life touched every one who knew her. In keeping with her spirit, she wished for her passing to be marked not only with remembrance, but with celebration.

To honor that wish, the family invites those attending her celebration Mass to wear bright and colorful clothes.

Her smile was her signature. Let’s carry it and pass it on. If it makes you smile, wear it!

Memorials, if desired may be made to Griffin Hospice Care Center; 3247 Newman Road. Griffin, Ga. 30223.

Arrangements are by the SCHINDLER FUNERAL HOME, 44 Center St., Gowanda.