in loving memory

Hank DeHope, Principal

Longtime principal of Burton and Vashon Grade Schools, Hank DeHope passed away early on the morning of January 18th in Tacoma. He was

97 years old.

Hank was born August 14, 1915 in Paterson, New Jersey. His father, William de hoop, arrived by steamship to Staten Island with 8 dollars in his pocket. The de hoop name was changed to DeHope a few years later. Hank was very proud

of his Dutch Heritage.

The family moved to South Dakota where they ran a bakery for many years until WWII broke out and sugar was rationed. Friends convinced Hank that he should go to college since he had a medical exemption from the service. The authorities said he had a heart problem and the army did not want him. He graduated from Northern State Teachers College and began teaching History and Band in Alcester, SD. It was here that he met the love of his life, Betty Cooper. They married in 1944 and four years later, followed Hank’s folks west to Seattle.

They both got teaching jobs on Vashon Island. Betty taught first grade for a short time and then Kindergarten for many years. Hank was the principal of Burton Grade School next to Judd Creek, and later at the new school up the hill. He moved to the principal position at Vashon Elementary years later.

Hank and Betty bought a log cabin in the woods on the Burton Peninsula and lived there until they built a beautiful home on Kingsbury Beach Road. They loved watching the sunsets over Quartermaster Harbor.

Hank enjoyed golfing with his buddies at the Country Club where he was a founding member and continued to pay dues until his death. Hank also enjoyed ballroom dancing at the Elk’s in Tacoma.

Hank is survived by son Don and his wife Marla of Gig Harbor. Hank had two grandchildren. David of Tacoma, and Kathryn of Santa Monica, CA. Preceding Hank in death were son Paul and wife Betty.

Hank loved Vashon Island. He loved his students and people in general.

His smile will be missed. Island Funeral Service coordinated internment at

Vashon Cemetery. Please visit our online guestbook at www.islandfuneral.com.

Paid Obituary.