James H. Hopkins, 69 of Belvidere, passed away at his home surrounded by his family, following a short illness.
He was born August 26, 1943 in Elgin, Illinois, the son of Lloyd E. and Dorothy (Barton) Hopkins. He lived for a short time in Pittsfield, Illinois but was raised and educated in Elgin, graduating from Elgin High School. He was united in marriage to Shelby L. Ewert on September 7, 1963 in Elgin. The couple made their home in Elgin, South Elgin and Union before moving to Belvidere. Jim was employed in the grocery business all of his working career, starting with Gromers Supermarket in Elgin, then Eagle Foods, Huntley Supermarket and later Wisted’s in Marengo. He was a wonderful husband and father and a doting grandfather, he liked to garden, enjoyed model railroading, collecting coins and caring for his animals, especially his dog, Lola. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan and was a proud supporter of all Chicago professional sports teams with the exception of the Cubs. He was looking forward to his 70th birthday and 50th wedding anniversary in the coming months.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Shelby of Belvidere, his daughters, Susan (Lance) Lamb of Huntley, Pamela (Douglas) Riley and Kristi Hopkins both of Belvidere, his grandchildren, Jennifer (Dan)(nee; Lamb) Thorn, Monica Lamb, Alexander Hopkins & Heather Riley also his brother, William (Tina) Hopkins of Mint Hill, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Scott.
A memorial gathering will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the 12 noon Celebration of His Life, on Saturday, July 27th at DeFiore-Jorgensen Funeral & Cremation Service, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. Burial will be at a later date in River Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Dundee. Memorials in his name may be made to Vitas Hospice, with special thanks to them for their excellent care, or his family.
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Pam & Kristy my thoughts are with you & your family! May you hold his memory close to your heart.
My dearest Mama Lou, S.K., Alex, Sue, Pam, Lola and family, My heart goes out to you. Our Papa Jim was a blessing to everyone who knew him and he will be missed beyond what mere words can convey. I will keep you all close in my prayers. God bless you all.
We are so very sorry for the loss of James. We will always think of of him with a smile and a laugh. Your whole family is in our thoughts and prayers.