Charles John Hopkins

Charles J. Hopkins (Charlie), 73, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024 in Bluffton, SC.  He was the loving and dutiful husband of Joyce A. (Dunheimer) Hopkins for more than 50 years.  In addition to his wife he is survived by his two children, Brett and Kara (Hopkins) Emes, as well as their families, including Holly (Jewett) Hopkins, Merritt Hopkins, William Hopkins and Brian Emes, Charles Griffin Emes, and Patrick Emes, as well as his beloved siblings Joseph Hopkins, David Hopkins, and Brian Hopkins.  He is predeceased by his sister Susan.

Born in Seltzer City, PA in 1950, Charlie was the son of Joseph and Harriett (Hoak) Hopkins.  As one of five children in a small town, Charlie found ample time for not only good-hearted mischief, but to also learn several life skills, including car repair, electrical work, and homebuilding – skills that proved invaluable to his family and children later in life.

A 1968 graduate of Pottsville Area High School, where he first met Joyce, Charlie excelled on the athletic fields, notably in football.  He continued his football career at Bloomsburg University, from which he graduated in 1972.

After graduation Charlie started his insurance career where his hard work and dedication distinguished him.  After working elsewhere, he joined Essick & Barr in 1979, ultimately rising to CEO and carrying that title until his retirement in 2012.  He and Joyce moved to Bluffton, SC shortly thereafter.  Through his loyal dedication to the company and his clients he succeeded beyond his expectations both in business and personally, earning lifelong friendships with both his coworkers and clients.

Charlie spent the majority of his life and raised his family in Wyomissing, PA where he was a devoted fan and supporter of Wyomissing athletics, most especially the football team.  His love and joy of all things Wyomissing football carried through his life, as did the friendships he made there.

More than anything Charlie was a giver and an amazing husband, father, and grandfather for his family.  In spite of his physical stature his heart was bigger than he was and his joy came in watching his children be happy, never missing one of their various games growing up.  As his kids became adults the automotive, electrical, and homebuilding skills he learned as a kid, in addition to insurance, always came in handy, but his impact goes well beyond what can be articulated and he will be greatly missed.

There will be a celebration of life service in Bluffton, SC (Belfair) on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 1 PM.  There will also be a celebration of life in Wyomissing, PA in the near future.  In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations to Alzheimer’s Association found at alz.org