George Hopkins

HOPKINS, GEORGE H., 84, beloved husband of the late Catharine (Heinlein), peacefully passed away on December 20, 2010, surrounded and held by his loving family. He was born in Bethel, DE, and is survived by five children Catherine Black of Norman, OK, John of Jacksonville, FL, Eleanor Bracken of Orange Park, FL, Gregory of Tempe, AZ, Howard of Langhorne, PA, and 10 grandchildren. Mr. Hopkins enlisted in the USMC at the age of 17 and served in World War II in the 5th Marine Division as a Radioman. He was among the first wave of troops to land on Iwo Jima in February 1945. After being honorably discharged, Mr. Hopkins worked for Bell Telephone Co. of PA, retiring after 36 years. He served for over 30 years on the Philadelphia Telco credit Union Board of Directors, including as President. Upon receiving his first trombone at the age of 7, his love of music began and despite his professional duties and raising 5 children, he never let his love of music fade, becoming an accomplished Dixieland Jazz musician, culminating with his own renowned band, The Speakeasy Stompers. The Viewing will be held Dec. 27 from 9 to 11 A.M. at LAMBIE FUNERAL HOME 8000 Rowland Avenue (at Rhawn Street), with a Memorial Service to follow. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Lung Association would be appreciated. www.lambiefuneralhome.com

Published in Philadelphia lnquirer & Philadelphia Daily News on December 24, 2010

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