John HOPKINS Obituary (1948 – 2022) – St. Paul, MN

Age 73, of St. Paul, MN Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on January 9, 2022. Mike was born on September 11, 1948, and died from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Joan Hopkins and brother Tom. Mike will forever remain in the hearts of his wife of 48 years Kathy; daughters Megan (Drew Herdener), Katie (Doug Schofield) and Bridget (Dan Long); grandchildren Allie and Kate Herdener, Eleanor and John Schofield and Charlie Long; siblings Ann (Tom Gorsuch), Dan (Lyn Steine), Katy (Jim Cronin); sister-in-law Mary Abbett; and wonderful lifelong friends forged over tennis, fishing, sailing, trips to the farm, chats in the garden, and activities with the St. Luke’s community. Mike graduated from Benilde High School in 1966, earned his Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree (Educational Psychology) from the University of Minnesota. Mike began his career in education with St. Paul Public Schools teaching children with autism. He went on to combine his passions for technology and education, and became the lead teacher of The Saturn School of Tomorrow in St. Paul, widely recognized as the most innovative school of its time. Mike concluded his professional career advising school districts, governments, and non-profit organizations on how best to integrate technology into the classroom. Mike will be remembered for many things— his kindness, patience, grace, and sense of humor, among them. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, educator and lover of all things outdoors especially fly fishing and sunsets. Thank you to all the wonderful caregivers at The Willows of Ramsey Hill who made the last few months comfortable for Mike, our family and friends. If you would like to honor Mike’s life, please join us in the fight against this disease by contributing to the Alzheimer’s Association or make a donation to your school of choice. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St.Thomas More Church (formerly St. Luke’s) 1079 Summit Ave, St. Paul on Wednesday, January 12th at 11:00am with visitation one hour prior at the Church. We will be practicing COVID protocol during Mass. Please wear a mask. If you are not vaccinated, please take and verify a negative test before coming. For those unable to attend Mass, a livestream will be available at https://www.morecommunity.org/funeral-livestream. Mike, we love you, and you will always be in our hearts and memories.