Russell Hopkins

Russell J. Hopkins, age 86, of Holland, passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Rest Haven Care Center in Holland, Michigan. He was born May 2, 1938 to Leo and Anna Hopkins in Grand Rapids, MI.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1955 and served three years as a tank driver.

On June 15, 1960, he married Thelma Vredeveld and they were able to spend 56 years together before her passing on June 6, 2016.

Russ dedicated his career as a police officer at Holland Police Department. He served as a K-9 officer, school education officer, and juvenile officer. He retired after 32 years as Detective Sergeant. After retiring, he was self-employed as a Private Investigator and also volunteered as a Service Officer for the DAV assisting many veterans. Russ’s hobbies included camping, vacationing with family, spending time with his grandchildren, fishing, hunting, photography, woodworking, and a love of trains, history, and genealogy. Russ was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.

He is survived by his daughter, Laurie (Gerrit) Dykgraaf; son, Dave Hopkins; grandchildren, Blake and Anna Staat.

A funeral ceremony will be held on October 1, at 11:00am, at First Reformed Church, 630 State Street, Holland. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service. The United States Army Honor Guard will bestow military honors. Reverend Louis Ford officiating. Interment will be in Gibson Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Solid Rock Ministries, 100 Pine Street, Zeeland, MI 49464.

Professional service entrusted to the Downtown Chapel.