Kbb industry pay tribute to Graham Hopper, 1959-2020
Industry members remember Hopper and reflect on his kbb legacy
Representatives from the kbb industry have paid tribute to Graham ‘Mr LEICHT UK’ Hopper this week, after he passed away in his home this April at the age of 61.
Hopper, who leaves behind his wife of 37 years, Wendy, three grown up children and a granddaughter, was a partner in three separate kbb businesses, and instrumental in the building of a UK wide LEICHT dealer network.
Hopper’s career began with LEICHT in 1980, and went on to span 40 years with the same company.
Messages from those in the industry pay tribute to his vision and leadership at the brand, and remember Hopper as a man of his word.
His obituary, written by his sons Liam, James & Arran, is as follows:
Remembering Graham Hopper
Graham Hopper was known in the industry for his loyalty and integrity. He was true to his word, straight talking, and his passion built the legacy he leaves behind.
Graham was a highly intelligent strategist in the kbb industry. Only three years from retirement, his ethos remained to push forward, build, stabilise and grow.
Graham believed that if things were tough, you must not quit. He mentored hundreds of UK dealers over the years, including his children, and picked them up when they fell. He enjoyed watching dealers grow, opening new showrooms, and expanding LEICHT from Scotland to Exeter.
The Hopper name now lives for another generation in Kitchens. We now enter an exciting new era, but we know we are not alone.
Thank you for everything Dad.
Liam, James & Arran, ‘The Hopper Boys’
Messages from friends in the industry
For 30 years, our friendship and business relationship never changed. As a former city boy, ‘your word is your bond’ is paramount to me, and Graham was the same. Not once did we sign a piece of paper or contract. Our relationship was built on trust, respect and friendship. I will miss him terribly, as will many. A real gentleman of our industry.
Graham was first and foremost a true gentleman. A man of his word, albeit very few sometimes, he was trusted, and well worthy of it. We will be eternally grateful for the trust and support Graham has given us, both personally and professionally. KI would not be where we are without him, and we are very proud of the friendship we shared. He will be sorely missed.
Words cannot describe the sadness I feel for the sudden loss of Graham. We first met 6 years ago through work and he became far more than a business partner to me. He was friend and mentor who offered help and advice whenever called upon, going far beyond his professional role. Graham really was an exceptional man whom I looked up to, I will remember him always. Thank you Graham for everything, myself and all my team at Lakeland Kitchens will miss you dearly.
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