Cleone Hoplin

Cleone Karel (Wales) Hoplin passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the age of 86. She left this world exactly as she wished—at home, her favorite place on earth, with her family by her side. Her final moments were filled with the same love, grace, and gentleness that defined her entire life.

Born on August 6, 1939, in Morris, MN, Cleone was the daughter of John and Florice Wales and the eldest of seven children. She embraced her role as the oldest with a natural warmth and steadiness, becoming the beloved matriarch of the Wales family. Her siblings looked to her for guidance, comfort, and unconditional love.

Cleone grew up in Jenkins, Minnesota, and graduated from Pequot Lakes High School. Her childhood friendships remained lifelong treasures, and she carried her small-town roots proudly throughout her life.

She married Paul Hoplin in 1957, and together they raised four children. Their life together took them from Pine River, Minnesota—where they spent most of their years—to a brief chapter in Southwest City, Missouri. Wherever they lived, Cleone created a home filled with faith, laughter, and a deep sense of belonging.

Family was the heart of Cleone’s world. She spent countless hours attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, babysitting, going out for lunches, and showing up for every milestone, big or small. She had a remarkable gift for making each member of her family feel uniquely loved and cherished.

A woman of unwavering faith, Cleone lived her values through kindness and connection. She made friends effortlessly—sometimes in the most unexpected ways. Her family fondly remembers the night she answered a wrong-number call at 3 a.m. and ended up talking with the stranger for half an hour. Whether it was coffee with her retired teacher group, time with her church circles, or visits with her childhood friends, Cleone found joy in every conversation and every shared moment.

For more than 18 years, Cleone faced a long and difficult battle with various cancers. She met every challenge with dignity, courage, and grace, never losing her warmth or her sense of humor. Her strength was quiet but profound, and it inspired everyone who walked beside her.

Cleone is survived by her children: Roger (Wendy), Rhonda (Gary) Wippler, Ronald, and Randy (Karen). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Roger (Sarah), Nicole (Joshua), Sheri (Toby), Luke, Erica, Brandon, Taylor, Chelsea (Jerson), Tyler, Lyndzee, Kallie (Conner), Randy II. She leaves behind 15 cherished great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, each one a testament to her legacy of love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Florice Wales; her husband, Paul Hoplin; her sister, Valoris (Lolo); her daughter-in-law, Jodi Hoplin; and her brothers-in-law, Dick Johnson and Ron Buchite.

Cleone’s life was a beautiful example of faith, kindness, and devotion to family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

There will be a visitation for Cleone from 4-7 PM on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Brenny-Kline Funeral Home in Pine River. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Pine River with a visitation the hour prior.