Paul Allen Hopkins, “Popeye,” passed away on Friday morning, October 1, 2021 at the age of 77 due to complications while battling Leukemia. Born on April 17, 1944, to Jack and Edith Hopkins, he was a lifelong South Bay legend. Paul graduated from Redondo Union High School in 1962 where he was a Track and Field medalist. The summer of 1966 is when Paul met his future wife, Irene Kathrine Rose. They got married on May 27, 1967 at Community Baptist Church in Manhattan Beach and celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary this year.
He began his career in construction at the age of 13 for Willoughby Norris Construction and later ran his own company, Hopkins Construction, building numerous custom homes in the area. Many of his apprentices claim he was a tough boss but appreciate that Popeye taught them everything they know.
Paul was passionate about motorcycles and cars, specifically hot rods, racing on Hermosa Avenue in the early sixties. He became a classic car aficionado, rebuilding a 1955 Chevy, 1939 Buick, and 1932 Ford truck as well as being a regular on the car cruise circuit. Waterskiing, hunting, and fishing were other pastimes Paul enjoyed, spending a lot of time at the Colorado River. He later purchased a vacation home on the California Delta which created many priceless family memories, “sunset cocktails on the deck” being one of them. Paul was a dedicated horseshoe player winning many tournaments, making it to the world horseshoe championships, and becoming a California State men’s champion several times. He was inducted into the California Horseshoe Hall of Fame. North Redondo Little League softball players would remember Paul as an influential coach in the 1980’s.
We lost an extraordinary person who impacted many lives. Paul was well respected by his family, friends and colleagues. His wisdom, willingness to help others, and mechanical knowledge were shared freely and sincerely appreciated. Paul “Popeye” Hopkins was a stoic, solid, genuine man who is unforgettable and will be greatly missed.
Paul is survived by his wife Irene, two daughters and two grandchildren. Daughter, Leslie Murphy and grandson Max Murphy, residing in Carpinteria, CA and daughter, Natalie Lee (Christopher) and granddaughter Coral residing in Westport, Oregon. He is also survived by three younger brothers Craig, Lance, and Kirk Hopkins as well as many other well-loved family members.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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