William Hopkins

12/24/1952 — 11/26/2023

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Bill Hopkins passed peacefully at his Clarkston home on Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, with loved ones close at hand. A man of faith and character, he navigated the challenges of cancer with grace and gratitude. A surprise party for his 70th birthday last year featured two of his favorite celebratory themes, pirates and Hawaii (one of his several particularly happy places). He wore both kinds of attire well and always with his trademark smile.

Bill was a Christmas Eve gift in 1952 to his parents Bryan (John) and Barbara Wright Hopkins, joining brother Steve and later welcoming sister Jode. In addition to these bonds, he always felt a special sort of admiration for his Grandad Bob.

After graduating from Lewiston High in 1971, he went on to earn a degree in business administration from the University of Idaho, where friends and fraternity brothers typically called him “Willy,” and the name stuck.

In 1976 Bill married his sweetheart Karen Stewart, and their family grew to include three cherished children. Karen and Bill shared their values, including a great appreciation for the outdoors, with Elizabeth, Jared and Jacob on a regular basis over the years. Favorite camping spots were Priest Lake and Mt. Rainier, the summit of which Bill proudly reached in 1990.

Bill was a remarkably active person; cycling, hiking, hoops, tubing, classic yard games, and most recently pickleball, were particular passions. He was also a dedicated employee, working at Pepsi of Lewiston for 37 years, retiring in 2018. In his positions there he especially enjoyed getting to see all kinds of people on a regular basis. He was a quintessential extrovert.

Bill was an affectionate husband, father, brother, uncle and friend to many. In recent years, he became a doting grandpa to those who called him “Captain.” They are not the only ones who think of him as a hero.

He is survived by Karen, his wife of 47 years; their children and grandchildren: Elizabeth (Levi), Aurora (7), Hayden (2), Jared (Michelle); Jacob (Alex); brother Steve (Alyssa); sister Jode; uncle Bill Wright; and fond nieces and nephews.

A celebration of this special life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Asotin County Fire Department/Mission Church, 2377 Appleside Blvd., Clarkston. Hawaiian wear and stories are welcome.

“His positive attitude, ability to make everything fun, enjoyment of life and amazing smile will leave an impact that will never be forgotten.”

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