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Dick_Hopkins

Feature Article October 16

Feature Article October 16, 2002

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Reminiscence - My friend Dick Hopkinsby Brenda Crawford On Sunday October 6, we lost Dick Hopkins, a well-loved teacher at Sydenham High School. He suffered a major heart attack and passed away. Dick was 54 years old. He lived in Sydenham, but had lived in Harrowsmith for some years. He leaves a wonderful wife, Marilyn, and three fantastic kids, Emily, Matt, and Robyn.

Dick received many awards for his skill. He enjoyed canoeing very much. In the 60s he was a hippie type with long hair and a beard to match. He and Marilyn were always active in anything that was going on that involved the kids. He taught at Napanee High School for many years, but he wanted to teach in his hometown of Sydenham. They built their dream home a few years ago.

He was so down to earth, and I never saw him without a smile on his face, except when we got together soon after John Ruskay passed away. He was just a sweet, mild-mannered man who loved his family so much and enjoyed teaching kids.

Dick taught me a lot about basketball. Between him and the late John Ruskay, I learned that getting a foul is sometimes a good thing. Our boys played ball from Harrowsmith Public to SHS. They all played on the team and if I promised my son I would go only to local games, I was allowed to watch. Dick and John always sat with me and we got the nickname of the Three Musketeers. My husband works shifts, so I had to go alone; but what fun we had.

I had a chat with Dick on the day he died. Robyn needed something at the grocery store and I had forgotten some things too. He had been receiving much press for his work and I always teased him about it. When we met, I asked him if I should shake his hand, hug him, or bow down, or better yet, could I get his autograph? He laughingly informed me that I sure could do the first three things, but if I wanted his autograph, I would have to pay. I would give a lot of money if I could get his autograph today.

Dick and John are probably watching the angels playing basketball and I hope they are being careful about some of the comments that they make. It's a wonder that we were never asked to leave some of the games!

With the participation of the Government of Canada