Richard 'Rich' Joseph Hopkins

Richard J. Hopkins was born on April 3, 1948, the second of five children to Richard and Clare (Van Eron) Hopkins in Brooklyn, New York where he was raised in a loving family. On Friday, May 20, 2016, Rich lost his battle with cancer that developed as a result of exposure to Agent Orange. He was a true Warrior.Upon graduation from Sheepshead Bay High School in 1967, Rich began working on Wall Street in Manhatten, NY. In February 1968, his plans were interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army. He accepted the challenge and proudly served his country with Charlie Company, 31st Engineer Battalion in Vietnam as a Combat Engineer. Rich was honorably discharged and returned to New York on September 24, 1969. Two weeks later he met the love of his life, Kathleen Bracciante, and immediately proposed marriage. Exactly one year later, on October 17, 1970 they sealed the deal in Brooklyn, NY.Over the next eight years their family began to blossom having three children. They lived in NY, and Pennsylvania before moving to Gillette, WY. The hippies from NY were finally able to plant roots and make a home. At first, Gillette was a bit of a culture shock, but the family greeted the change with both an open mind and heart. Lasting friendships and adventures began for Rich. The city boy was introduced to camping, fishing and hunting. Rich loved to discover the beauty and majesty of Wyoming and the surrounding States. Most of his career was spent at Buckskin Mine as an electrician. He retired, and joined the "Saturday Club" in May of 2011.Rich wore many hats as a volunteer and member of the Gillette community. He was dedicated to developing the Little League complex where he also coached his sons' baseball teams. Rich and Kathy served on the committee that founded Junior Football and coached the Hurricanes for several years. Rich was also a coach for the Touch of Gold Wrestling club, where he also officiated for USA Wrestling at the local, regional and national level. He was the WY State Pairings Director for over two years.Prior to, and after purchasing his Harleys, Rich took many road trips with his family and friends throughout the US creating lasting memories that lived on in stories shared by all. Rich was a lifelong NY Jets fan and follower of the NY Mets. Family was always Rich's number one priority. His greatest pleasure was watching and supporting his kids and grand-kids at school and sporting events. Rich welcomed strangers and treated them as if he had known them for years. Rich was a straightforward and solidly steadfast man who will never be replicated. He was a strong mentor to many, a great father and leader of his family. He possessed a contagious laughter, a lively sense of humor, quick wit and a love for practical jokes and gag gifts. As an example, Rich had convinced his children that he dated both Janis Joplin and Aretha Franklin, something they eagerly told teachers and friends. Rich was proud to serve his community as a patriotic citizen. He put others first whenever it counted. As a Veteran, he supported his Brothers in Arms, never forgetting those who protect and defend our freedom. Rich loyally flew the American and POW flags. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW for over thirty years. Rich was proceeded in death by his father, Richard, his in-laws, Fred and Dorothy Bracciante and close friend, Tom Walker. He is survived by his wife of almost 46 years, Kathy, two sons, Brian (Melissa) Hopkins, Matt (Jessica) Hopkins, daughter, Michelle Hopkins (Joe Massaro); his grandkids Alecs, Carissa, Justine, Mary, Hope and Joshua; his mother Clare Hopkins and several brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews and cousins.Visitation will be Tuesday, May 24th from 5-7pm at the Walker Funeral Home with a Rosary to follow at 7:30pm. At the family's request, please join Rich for his final ride from Walker Funeral Home to St. Matthews Catholic Church in Gillette on Wednesday, May 25th at 9:30am with service to follow at 10am. Full Military Honors will be rendered following the Mass at St. Matthews. A private burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to benefit the Campbell County Advisory Board- Chair Affair (Cancer Benefit). Memorials and condolences may be sent to the family in care of Walker Funeral Home, 410 Medical Arts Ct. Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be sent via www.walkerfuneralgillette.com Funeral Home:Walker Funeral Home410 Medical Arts CourtGillette, WYUS 82716