Harold Hoopes Prince

Harold lived a life rooted in faith, family, curiosity, and a deep love of the natural world. He was a lifelong man of faith and a member of First Baptist Church in Keokuk until his marriage and move to Michigan. There, he became a lifelong member of University Lutheran Church, a community that remained an important part of his life.

On May 27, 1962, Harold married the love of his life, Marybeth Stecker, in Titonka, Iowa. For more than 64 years, they shared a life filled with love, family, friendship, faith, travel, and adventure. Together, they built a family and created a lifetime of memories.

Harold had an exceptional mind and an abiding passion for wildlife. He earned three degrees in wildlife biology: a B.S. from Iowa State University, an M.Sc. from the University of New Brunswick, and a Ph.D from Virginia Polytechnic Institute. As a doctoral student at the Delta Waterfowl Research Station, he conducted important research on mallard embryology and genetics, work that helped establish a foundation for his distinguished career in wildlife science.

Harold spent 35 years as a faculty member at Michigan State University, where he was a gifted teacher, mentor, and researcher. He influenced the lives and careers of hundreds of undergraduate students and served as major professor to nearly 50 graduate students. Many of those students went on to become leaders in waterfowl and wildlife science and conservation. Harold and his students made lasting contributions to the understanding of waterfowl and wetlands through their research and the publication of more than 60 peer-reviewed papers, a book and numerous book chapters.

While Harold devoted much of his professional life to understanding wildlife and the natural world, he also loved experiencing it firsthand. He believed in staying active and making the most of life. He loved to golf and was an avid perch fisherman, hunter, water skier, downhill skier and runner. He also had a great love of travel and was fortunate to explore and experience much of the world. Being a Michigan State University faculty member for many years, he was a devoted Spartan fan, proudly cheering on MSU in every sport.

Of all the places Harold knew and loved, Higgins Lake held a special place in his heart. Beginning in 1977, Harold and his family spent much of their summers there, creating traditions and memories that would last a lifetime. Higgins Lake was a place of sunshine, water, laughter, recreation, family gatherings and countless adventures - a place that became woven into the story of their family.

Harold will be remembered not only for his accomplishments as a scientist and educator, but for the people he encouraged, the knowledge he shared, the adventures he embraced, and the love he gave to his family. His curiosity about the world, his appreciation of the outdoors, and his devotion to those he loved will remain part of the many lives he touched.

Harold is survived by his beloved wife, Marybeth Stecker Prince; his children, Daniel (Debbie) Prince, Derrick (Samantha) Prince, and Camille Prince: and his grandchildren, Andrew and Thomas, Teigen, Nina, Chandler Cook and Courtney Cook. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Dorothy Garett and Ruth Roeglin.

A memorial service celebrating Harold’s life will be held Friday, October 9, 2026, at 1:30 pm with a visitation beginning at 1:00 pm at University Lutheran Church 1020 S. Harrison Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Harold may be made to University Lutheran Church.

Harold leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, mentorship, adventure and family. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.