Norman Paul Hopkins' Obituary
Norman “Norm” Paul Hopkins, age 80, passed away on January 24, 2026. He was born on August 2, 1945, to Harold and Miriam Hopkins in Ferndale, Michigan.
Norm graduated as class president from Morley Stanwood High School in 1963. He went on to attend Ferris State University from 1963 to 1965, studying Radio and Television Servicing. In 1965, he proudly joined the United States Army, serving his country until 1967.
On August 12, 1972, Norm married the love of his life, Kathleen Ryan. They shared 53 wonderful years together and raised two children who were the center of their world. After retirement, Norm and Kathy enjoyed traveling together, making memories and exploring new places side by side. In their later years, they were often found on the sidelines cheering on their grandchildren at countless softball, baseball, soccer, track, and cross‑country events. Family was truly the most important part of Norm’s life.
Norm loved the outdoors and cherished time spent hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, and playing both slow‑pitch and fast‑pitch softball. He was a passionate and talented bowler, achieving two perfect 300 games and even earning the opportunity to compete in a televised tournament—an experience he was especially proud of. He enjoyed playing tonk with family and friends in the birthday club. He also found great joy in gardening—especially alongside his brother, Roger Hopkins, on the family farm.
Throughout his working years, Norm was dedicated to construction, working shoulder to shoulder with his brother‑in‑law, Tom Hanson, and later with his nephew, Ryan Hanson.
Norm is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Hopkins; children, Jeremy (Lisa) Hopkins and Sarah (Andy) Klimek; grandchildren, Adam (Cait) Fisher, Tara (Casey) Moore, Savana Hopkins, Shelby Hopkins, Marcus Klimek, Deagan Klimek, and Ariel Daniel; and great‑grandchildren, Laura and Melody.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Harold Hopkins Jr., and grandson, Landon Klimek.
Norm will be remembered for his devotion to family, his strong work ethic, and the joy he found in the simple, meaningful moments of life. His love and influence will live on in all who knew him.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Trinity Fellowship EFC in Big Rapids. Norm’s family will greet friends Wednesday, January 28th at Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and beginning at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the church. Military honors under the auspices of AmVets Post 1941 and American Legion Post 98. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Veterans Administration.
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