WOODSTOCK, N.H.— John C. Hopkins, 69, passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2017, while canoeing on the Pemigewasset River in Woodstock, N.H. John was doing what he loved best, spending time in nature.

John was born Feb. 17, 1948. He was the son of the late Ralph (Buster) E. Hopkins and Katherine M. (Jordan) Hopkins. He was the oldest of five siblings.

John graduated from Rockland District High School, class of 1966. Following graduation, John married his high school girlfriend, Barbara Wilcox, who lived in South Thomaston. He attended MCI and U.S. Diver's School in Florida.

In 1967, John and his family moved to Connecticut. He was hired at Pratt and Whitney until he became manager of the Willowbrook Apartment complex and attended college part time.

Following a move back to Maine with his young family, John became a full-time student, earning a degree in psychology and working in real estate.

John spent most of his adult life employed by the beautiful Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport as an IT specialist and caretaker. During this time, he renewed his love of motorcycles by racing at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He enjoyed the camaraderie and being "Grandpa" to his fellow racers, as well as the thrill of the ride.

Growing up, John, his family and friends spent many summers enjoying their family camp on Lake Pemaquid in Bremen. His life was filled with stories and memories of boating, water skiing, swimming and fishing. Upon retirement, John enjoyed his love of hiking, fishing and canoeing with his son, Buster, in the White Mountains and more recently hiking with his grandson, James, in the Midcoast.
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He was predeceased by his best friend and cousin, Scott Jordan.

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle N. Hopkins-Hallock and her husband, Russell Hallock, and his grandson, James Russell Hallock, all of Owls Head; and his son, John C. Hopkins Jr. of Bristol N.H. He is also survived by his brothers, Fred and his wife, Ann Conway Hopkins, of Standish, Ralph and his wife, Nancy Root Hopkins, of Saco, and Mark and his wife, Donna Prescott Hopkins, of Bremen; his sister, Karen Hopkins Rackcliff and her partner, Royce Butler Jr., of Thomaston; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.

A Celebration of Life for friends and family will be held Sunday, May 21, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Rockland Elks Lodge, 210 Rankin St. in Rockland.