Curtis L. Hopkins

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Dec 29 1933
Jul 11 2017
83 Years
West Chester, Pennsylvania

My father was recently asked by his much loved and respected grandniece, Gena Julian, what he hoped his legacy will be. His third person answer: “It was a pleasure and privilege to have known him. He was well-read, always willing to listen to your side of the story, understanding, and kind. He was funny – loved jokes, and smiled a lot. It was always pleasant just to be around him. He was a great example of Frank Sinatra’s My Way.” Dad, I can only add that I will miss my best friend every day. Many of us will. Thank you for always being there, your unconditional love, and for teaching me fearlessness when standing up for the truth.

Curtis L. Hopkins was born in Filley, Missouri on December 29, 1933. The closest town, Stockton, was four to five hours away by foot, or a little over three hours by horse.

This may or may not help substantiate his oft told stories about riding his horse to a one room school house – even through the deep snow.

Curt passed away gently and with dignity at home in West Chester, PA on July 11, 2017, with his daughter and son-in-law present. The family appreciates the support from Curt’s physician, George H. Limpert, MD and the Willow Tree Hospice team. Curt traveled several interesting and rewarding paths during his life as a soldier, student, Hallmark Cards executive, Ford Mercury dealership owner, banker, pilot, and sailor. He lived in the aforementioned Filley and Stockton, MO, as well as El Paso, TX; Honolulu, HI; Grand Rapids, MI; Kansas City, MO; Raymore, MO; Chicago, IL; and West Chester, PA.

Curt was also an enthusiastic 1976 Republican National Convention delegate, who worked hard to persuade delegates from other states to support Ronald Reagan; his political persuasions were ultimately forgiven by his niece, Dayna Stone, and his daughter.

Dad, Papazon Hop, Grandfather, Pop Pop, Opa, Curt is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Cynthia (Cyd) Hopkins-Dieckmann and Pascal Dieckmann, West Chester, PA; granddaughters, Michelle More and husband Brad and their “two fine boys,” Odin and Axel, Woodbury, MN and Bella Dieckmann and partner Jeff Parcher, Capitol Heights, MD; grandsons, John Lee Hopkins (named after Curt’s father), York, PA and David Sioma and wife Leah, Wayne, PA; daughters-in law, Toni LuConic, Woodbury, MN and Nancy Sioma and husband Jim (honorary son-in-law), York, PA; sister-in-law, Jeannie Stone, Springfield, MO; and many, many nieces and nephews who loved their Uncle Curt; especially Larry Read, who was actually more like a brother, and his wife Iris; and Vadena K. Julian, who dearly loved her “Uncle Curtie Baby.” He is also survived by his dearest friend of over 50 years, Tom Blades, another agent provocateur, and Tom’s kind and thoughtful wife, Phoebe.

Curt was preceded in death four days short of one year by his wife, V. Bette Hopkins, to whom he was married for 63 years. They were preceded in death by their son, Curt E. Hopkins in 1986. Curt was also preceded in death by his parents, brother, and two sisters.

With very liberal (pun definitely intended) paraphrasing from Sinatra’s My Way… 

You've lived a life that's full

You've traveled each and every highway

But more, much more than this

You did it your way

 

My omniscient Papazon Hop, I already miss you terribly.

But hey, do you know the joke about…?

Family and friends are invited to attend graveside services with military honors on Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 10:00am at the Upper Octorara Cemetery, 357 Octorara Road, Parkesburg, PA 19365.

Arrangements entrusted to the Wilde Funeral Home, Parkesburg, PA. Online condolences may be posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com

Service Date: 
Jul 16 2017 - 9:59am
Service Location: 
Upper Octorara Cemetery

Condolences

Cyd, Bella, and Pascal,

"If "love" could build a stairway and "memories" a lane....."

My heartfelt condolence to you.  Memories last a lifetime...may they fill your mind and warm your heart....you are connected by your heartstring into "forever."

Love you much,

Velma "Rose"   @<<<

 

 

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Cindy and Family... Words can not express my sympathy for you in your loss of your Dad. You were special to him from Day one. Iris and I will forever remember our great good times together with Curt and Betty at their home on 99th Terr and then in Raymore almost every Friday evening. We would play cards until late at night and then drive home to North Kansas City. I could never call your Dad, Uncle Curt because it seemed so out of place. He was Curt and we were both comfortable with that. I know your Dad would be pleased with the order of Service especially the Military Honors. He was special to everyone he met. He loved you and I know you will miss him. God Bless you and yours as you live with the many memories which I know, will be recalled often.

Larry and Iris Read 

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We send our sympathy to the whole Hopkins family as you grieve the passing of Curt from his earthly adventures.  His obituary is a true and honest reflection of the smile, personality, character, and sense of humor that he shared with all he met.  We enjoyed family times together and pray that all the memories you have in your hearts and minds carry you through the pain of missing him. 

 

 

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I do not know you or your family but I was struck by this amazing tribute! BEAUTIFULLY DONE! 

 YOU DONE GOOD Uncle Curt!  :)

Rest easy...

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Dear Cyd, Bella and Pascal,

We are so very sorry for your loss. May the beautiful memories give you strength, peace and comfort during this difficult time.

You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Art & Claudine Bradshaw 

 

 

 

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Cyd, Pascal, Bella, John Lee, Michelle, & David,

My thoughts and prayers are with you this Saturday, July 15th.  The world has lost a great man.  I am so thankful I had the opportunity to spend some quality time with him not long ago.  He was always there for me when I needed him.  He was loved by many people.  Now he is with Vivian, Violet, Clete, Little Curt, and sweet precious Aunt Bette.  It comforts me to know he is at peace in a better place.  Love you all so very much!  

Rest Well Curty Baby,

Dena Kay and Family

 

 

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