Robert "Hoppy" Mumford

Robert Hoppy Mumford of Santa Paula, California passed away peacefully on Monday, August 1, 2016 at Mound Guest Home in Ventura. Born in New Jersey, on April 28, 1937 to William and Vada Mumford. Hoppy than moved to Philipsburg, PA. It was in Philipsburg where he met his future wife Betsey and developed a passion for sports. While in High School he excelled in all sports but it was football and wrestling that he gained the most attention. He then transferred to Lockhaven Teachers College in P.A. and then to Ventura College. At both colleges his name was recognized with greatness and firmly set the wheel in motion to what would come full circle.

Hoppy moved to California in 1959 and continued his education at Ventura College. While attending school he lived and worked at the County Fire Station in Santa Paula. His goal was to become a teacher but one day while at Fire Station he was asked if he wanted to be a Fireman. He said yes and that decision helped to shape many lives. He was a passionate man who loved everyone he came in contact with. Whether he was your Captain Chief or co-worker you could always count on “Hop Mumford” to have your back. Hoppy worked for the Ventura County Fire Department for 32 years and retired in 1992 as a Battalion Chief. While on the Department he helped to build the S.P. Youth football program in the 70’s, mentor young kids who needed direction and became a role model to everyone he came in contact with. After retiring in 1992 from the Fire Department he began coaching football at Santa Paula High School. He was coming full circle as coach. Hoppy could now bestow his love for football on those who craved his passion. His record of wins and commitment to the players is unmatched as is evident in those who have excelled as a result of Coach Hoppy.

In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking, riding his bicycle and watching football. He lived for going to Friday night football games and watching Sunday afternoon games. He would love to sit on the driveway and tell stories to anyone who stopped by and just hung out. Hoppy is survived by his wife Betsey of 56 years, Son Robert Mumford, Daughter Kathy Ann Brooks and Grandchildren Staci Buckinburger and Roman Brooks.

Service for Robert Hoppy Mumford will be held on Monday, August 8, 2016 at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. Funeral services is under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary. In lieu of flowers Mumford family asks donations be made to Santa Paula Football program.