John Douglas Hopkins Jr.

Age 73, of Springhill, surrounded by his family, passed away after a lengthy and courageous battle with illness on January 11, 2021 at 0111 hours. John is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Carol (nee Demings), Springhill; son, John Douglas "JD" Hopkins III (Cheryl Taks), Springhill; daughter, Tanya Hopkins ( Bob Honkoop), Alliston, P. E. I.; grandchildren, Braden ( Jackie) Hopkins, Tyler Hopkins, Brianna Sherriff and Kyle Sherriff; step grandchildren, James Taks, Jordan Taks and Braelyn (Andrew) Warrack; great-grandchildren, Jayden and Reid Hopkins; stepgreat-grandchildren, Aubrey and Oaklanwarrack; sister, Geraldine Charters, Moncton, N.B.; sisters-in-law, Beverly Hopkins and Jackie Demings, Springhill. John was predeceased by his father, John Douglas Hopkins Sr.; mother, Goldie Hopkins; identical twin brother, George Hopkins. John joined the Canadian Armed Forces at the age of 18 eager for adventure and exploration fueled by his dedication, patronage and honor to serve his country. And what grand adventures he had! To know John was to know that there would be no shortage of any conversation or jokes! His ability to fit in anywhere and capture an audience with the recanting of his tales is one characteristic many will fondly remember. His outgoing personality earned him rare privileged invitations to participate in ritualistic and honorable hunting practices while posted to Germany. He learned to speak the language, studied the culture and made lifelong friendships while there. He often spoke of his hunts and his vast experiences of the German culture. His love of all things outdoors, hunting and wild game cooking remained with him until the end. John went on to complete a combined 40 years of service to his country between Regular and Reserve Force. But one thing he didn’t know how to do was ’retire’. He was more active after his retirement than before! He was a member of the Volunteer Fire Department in Springhill for 15 years. He also toured around the country teaching fire safety to schools with ’Chief Life Line’. The only other thing John loved more than hunting was golfing! John was an active member of the Springhill Golf Club for many years. He was most proud of his not 1, but 2 hole in ones!! His many years of efforts and contributions to fundraising and event organizing on behalf of the club recently earned him an Honorary Lifetime Membership. He loved to get together with his friends, especially his dearest friend John Clark, and golf as often as time circumstances and health would allow. In recent years one of John’s proudest accomplishments was the fundraising and hard work he put into the restoration and preservation of his hometown’s Cenotaph. He worked endless hours, knocked and talked at countless doors, left no stone unturned, no avenue unexplored to achieve his goal. John felt it his mission and honor to have this Cenotaph, something near and dear to his heart, brought back to its former glory for all future generations to enjoy for many years ahead. For all to remember and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in defense of our country and our freedom. He loved his motorcycle and in recent years enjoyed riding with the Defenders. He will be sadly missed by many. John’s wish was to receive a glorious military send off. This was his only request was to have a military funeral. At his request his family will have this done for him but in light of the current pandemic in our country a service deserving of a man with his level of dedication and love of country would not be possible at this time. When circumstance are better there will be a formal service. If desired, donations can be made to Wounded Warriors Canada, or any charity that honors and supports those who serve and protect our great country. Arrangements are in the care of Macdiarmid’s Funeral Home & Crematorium, Oxford (902-4472930). Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting: www.mmcfunerals.com