Darrius Young Hoopes, 28, died April 18, 2011, in Denver, Colorado. (actual date April 15)
He was born Oct. 25, 1982, in Laramie to Ronald and Kristine Hoopes.
He had a normal childhood full of adventure and mischief. He was the youngest of six children and, as a result, quickly learned independence and perseverance. As a child, he attended Slade Elementary School and Laramie Junior High School. During his junior high years, he discovered a love for kayaking and would continue to enjoy this activity through his adult life. He began high school at Laramie High School and would eventually transfer to Job Corps and graduate from Anaconda High School in Anaconda, Mont., in May 2001. While attending Job Corps, he became a certified heavy equipment operator.
Upon graduating from high school, he returned to Laramie and worked until he enlisted in the United States Army in May 2002. He attended basic training in Fort Knox, Ky., and graduated in August 2002.
He was later stationed at Fort Riley, Kan. His rank was an E4 Calvary Scout. He served for a year as a Cavalry Scout Sniper during the Iraq War beginning in February 2005. While serving in Iraq, he completed 297 combat missions and survived two IEDs (Improvised Explosive Device). He was the recipient of several medals and letters of commendation. Upon returning from Iraq, he continued his service for three years in the Army Reserve.
After serving in the Army, he returned to Wyoming and worked with his brothers for several years on drilling rigs. Prior to his death, he was living in and working on a rig as a derrick man in western Colorado.
He was a wonderful son, brother and friend who brought much happiness into the lives of those around him. He had great wit and humor. He was kind, incredibly smart and was respected for his work ethic and ability to excel at the things he did. In his family, he was considered a peacemaker and spiritually brought much joy. He was also known to be a loyal person and a good friend. He was admired for his patience and tenderness toward his nephew, nieces and friends, who loved him very much. He had great calmness and an easy-going nature. He was admired for his patriotism and willingness to serve our country. He was a thoughtful and good man. He will be dearly missed.
“High IQ…jokester among his siblings…brought a lot of joy to our family…highly spiritual…loved to shoot guns. Loved his truck…3 children have been named after him…very proud of his military service and most of all he missed his Army buddies…” (shared by his father, Ron)
Birth: Oct. 25, 1982
Laramie
Albany County
Wyoming, USA
Death: Apr. 18, 2011
Denver
Denver County
Colorado, USA
Burial:
Freedom Cemetery
Freedom
Caribou County
Idaho, USA
#22toomany #OurHeroes are #NeverForgotten
Menu
