Russell "Russ" A. Hopkins

Russell Anthony Hopkins Obituary September 8, 1961 - July 8, 2021 On July 8, 2021, Russell Anthony Hopkins, an adored son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend found his own "Stairway to Heaven". Russ died suddenly due to complications from diabetes. He was just 59 years old. Russell is survived by his mother, Virginia, sister, Tricia, nephews Andrew (wife Amanda) and Stephen Hopkins, his niece Lily Hopkins and several cousins. Russell was predeceased by his father, Arthur, and two brothers, Jimmy, and Chris. A proud and loyal United States Army Veteran, he served his country as a paratrooper in the United States and Germany. After the Army, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves as well as supporting and being supported by countless amazing Veterans. Russ loved all living things and cared for wounded birds, cats, dogs, and animals most of his younger life. He loved to fish, go camping, plus play golf baseball, and football, and truly enjoyed all activities outdoors. Russ was a diehard Las Vegas Raiders fan yet always considered them to be his Oakland Raiders! Russ was very well versed in sports and American history which encouraged him to learn and follow the tentacles of the other military branches. His love for real "rock music", as he called it, never wavered! Among some of his favorites were The Who, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, and Carlos Santana! Russ suffered great personal losses and later in life struggled with tremendous physical ailments and injuries over the years, but he never complained nor felt sorry for himself. Russ was incredibly brave and resilient his entire life with a great sense of humor. Russ' fearlessness was exhibited earlier on. Once as a small boy, he fell off a friend's porch injuring his leg. Rather than worrying his buddies and having to stop playing, he continued for a few hours before limping home. When his mother saw him, she immediately took him to the hospital to find out that he had a severely broken leg. Russ had pride, guts, courage, and faith which were his mainstays in life. Russ held numerous jobs over the years but the one for which he was most proud was that of a United States Army Comrade. He believed he was born to be a U.S. soldier. Russ was heartbroken by the deaths of his dad and two brothers, Jimmy, and Chris. On Thursday, July 8, 2021, they all came to take him home to Heaven. It must have been quite a scene as we all know his brother Chris had a party prepared with lots to eat and drink complete with Box Seats at a Met's game! When you think of Russ, remember him as a boy who grew into a good, kind, and courageous man that honorably served his country, had a wicked sense of humor, loved his family, friends, the military, and his fellow Veterans! Light up the Heavens sweet Russ (aka Moon Man)!!! Arrangements for Russ have been entrusted to College Park Chapel of Armes-Hunt Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 4601 South Western Avenue, Marion, Indiana 46953. On Monday, July 19, 2021, at 11:00 A.M. there will be a graveside service held at the Marion National Cemetery, 1700 E. 38th Street, Marion, Indiana 46953, with Father Hillary Okeke officiating. Please do not arrive at the cemetery before 10:45 A.M., the cemetery asks that if you have not been fully vaccinated to please wear a mask, and that everyone practices safe social distancing. In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to reach out to your local Veterans Affairs office to help fellow veterans in need. Graveside Service Mon, Jul 19, 2021 at 11:00 am Marion National Cemetery 1700 E. 38th StreetMarion, IN 46953 The Marion National Cemetery asks that if you have not been fully vaccinated that you wear a mask and practice safe social distancing.