Robert Randy Hopkins

Robert “Randy” Hopkins

Randy was, by all accounts, one of a kind. Whether you called him unique, quirky, or a unicum, those who knew him best simply knew there was no one else quite like Randy.

Randy passed away on September 24 following a sudden health crisis. He had previously beaten Hodgkin lymphoma in his 20s and had been managing a low-grade leukemia in recent years. His passing came quickly, leaving his family and friends heartbroken and still trying to process the loss.

Randy was kind, thoughtful, generous, and deeply caring. He had a particular soft spot for his nieces, whom he faithfully sent holiday care packages filled with candy, Girl Scout cookies, a handwritten note, and $5 lunch money. He usually sent them to their workplaces, ensuring that even grown nieces—and all of their co-workers—could look forward to a care package from Uncle Randy. The day before he died, while in the hospital, Randy reassured one of his nieces that he would be out in time to send her Halloween goodies. He wasn't. So it seems fitting that his celebration of life will be held on a holiday he helped us celebrate.

An open house Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 31st from noon-3:00pm at The Room at Mattingly’s: 3440 Harry S Truman Blvd., Saint Charles, MO.

Randy's generosity extended to animals as well. He made monthly donations to the Missouri Humane Society, and his family asks that those wishing to honor his memory consider making a donation there. His beloved cats, Shorty and Fish Filet, were especially important to him. Even on his final day, his biggest concern was making sure they would be okay. His family is currently seeking a loving home where this healthy, vaccinated, nine-year-old bonded pair can stay together.

Randy had a gift for making everyday things into ways of staying connected. He posted pictures of his meals on Facebook—not to show off, but to ask, “What's for dinner at your house?” He kept in touch with childhood friends and was a familiar face at his favorite local spots, where he had his designated seat at the bar.

He was a devoted sports fan, fantasy football commissioner, and walking encyclopedia of sports statistics and trivia. He might ask, “Who won the last Triple Crown?” and then clarify that he wasn't talking about horse racing. He was also remarkably good at picking Kentucky Derby winners.

Randy was the family's legendary baker, responsible for the cheesecakes that became famous at family gatherings. No one is quite sure who will fill that role now—or how we'll get through the holidays without them. Applications are currently open.

He loved a Bloody Mary, although anyone making one for him could expect close supervision and a critique of their Worcestershire sauce ratio. He loved red wine, too, and made sure his nieces knew they should get the good stuff from his house before his sister did.

Beneath his dry wit was a deeply sentimental man. He saved cards and notes people had given him, including drawings from his nieces when they were children. He cared for his mother until her passing and made sure his family was taken care of even after his own death.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Robert “Red” and Rona Hopkins. He is survived by his sister, Robin Fuller; brother-in-law, Dan Fuller; nieces Tracy (Kiff) Forbush and Lindsay Fuller; his beloved cats, Shorty and Fish Filet; and many extended family members and friends who will miss his humor, generosity, and unmistakable laugh.

We have a feeling he's already found St. Peter and is quizzing him on some completely random piece of sports trivia—and probably correcting his Bloody Mary recipe, too.

Randy was one of one. He was irreplaceable, deeply loved, and will be greatly missed.