Dick was predeceased by his wife of 41 years, Dorothy (Wilson) Hopwood, and by his brothers, John Jason, Manuel “Flinx” Jason, Reggie Jason, and his sisters Mary Louise Merrill and Marion Mitchell.
Dick is survived by his loving children; Richard Hopwood Jr. of Chilmark, James Hopwood and his wife Lynne of Falmouth, Mary Anne Milbert wife of Scott Milbert of Kingston, Jeffrey Hopwood and his wife Joyele of Bourne. He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren; Dana, Megan, Madison, Morgan, Harrison, Jackson, James, Benjamin, Nathan, and Ainsley. Dick also leaves behind his loving companion of 11 years, Ms. Barbara Gill, as well as, many nieces and nephews.
Dick was born in Provincetown on August 20, 1935, to the late Richard and Mary (Roderick) Hopwood. He graduated from Provincetown High School in 1949. He went on to join the ROTC program at Northeastern University where he graduated with a Civil Engineering degree in 1953.
Dick and his wife, “Dottie”, settled in Gray Gables where they started their family in the early 1960s and later settled in Pocasset where they lived to their respective deaths. They welcomed many friends and family over the years. Their home was often affectionately referred to as the “Hopwood Hotel.”
Dick was a school teacher at Bourne High School for over thirty years, retiring in 1996. He influenced many students, who to this day, tell countless stories of their teacher and friend. He loved teaching and was often seen on the sidelines of various sports. He was involved in many of his children's’ activities, whether it be hockey, football, baseball, figure skating, or scouts. He was his children's biggest supporter.
Dick and Dottie purchased Maco’s Bait and Tackle in 1970. What began as a small bait and tackle shop grew into the largest supplier of bait across the Southcoast and Cape Cod. Dick could often be seen with his sidekick, “Rosie,” his beloved Airedale Terrier. They traveled the Cape delivering bait together and worked behind the counter at the shop. Dick was in his element whistling his favorite tune. Many children and grandchildren grew up in his shop and on the docks at Macos. Fishermen far and away have countless Dick Hopwood tales.
If you knew Dick, you knew of his love for music. He spent many years by a piano singing his favorite tunes. People would often venture out to the former Dolphin Inn to listen to Dick sing the classics. Accompanied by his pianist, Al “Fingers” Russo, the two would perform various gigs around the surrounding area. He was also asked to sing at various weddings, especially at his children’s. These are memories that are held dear.
Dick loved the ocean and loved to fish when he had the chance. He would often take his grandchildren fishing, and visiting Macos was a part of life for them. He enjoyed watching their countless activities. “Papa” was their biggest fan.
Visiting hours will be held Thursday September 1st from 4pm-8pm at Nickerson Bourne Funeral Home 40 MacArthur Blvd., in Bourne. A celebration of life will be held on Friday September 2nd at 11 a.m at St John’s The Evangelist Church in Pocasset.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5