Virginia Country music radio personality Joe Hoppel has passed away at the age of 89, according to an announcement from his family. Hoppel, who spent 37 years as a morning show host in Norfolk, first took to the airwaves at 15 in his home state of Pennsylvania.
He then moved to Portsmouth, VA’s WLOW and later joined Hampton Roads’ WCMS, where he spent the majority of his career. After WCMS’ format flip in 2003, he joined the short-lived Kick 106 (WKCK) before another flip, months later. Hoppel’s career accolades included CMA Music Director of the Year and his induction into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame in 2002.
Hoppel penned People I’ve Met, Things I’ve Done: 50 Years in Country Music Radio in 2010, encapsulating his experiences in the industry. His community service efforts also supported organizations such as The Rotary Club of Hampton Roads and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His unique tradition, Tell Someone They’re Doing A Good Job Week, is still celebrated annually in Hampton Roads.
I loved getting up early every sunday morning to listen to Joe and his Blue Grass Hour and I really enjoyed listening to Joe . Sorry to hear of his passing, he will be solely missed May God Bless RIP My friend .
Even though Joe Hoppel had retired and was off the air for roughly 20 years, he will be sorely missed.
Joe was always humble and never let the success of his career get the best of him or change the type of person he was. Always down to earth.
The type of radio Joe did and the type of station that WCMS-FM 100.5/AM1050 Norfolk VA was, you can not find anymore in this day of automation and voice tracking. Joe Hoppel and WCMS Norfolk were one of a kind.
Rest In Peace Joe…job well done. As Joe would always close his morning show everyday with this phase…. ” Have yourself a nice day won’t you…….you got a nice day for it. “