John E. Hopwood

John E. Hopwood, 53, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 13, 2019 in Stratham, New Hampshire. Born in Newnan, Georgia on January 1, 1966 to David G. Hopwood and Rosalie Lemine Hopwood. Raised in Andover, Massachusetts by his father and stepmother, Nancy Rizzuto with his five siblings, Deena, Laura, Greg, AnaJill (AJ), and James (Jaime) Hopwood.  John was a graduate of Andover High School. 

He enlisted in the United States Air Force at age 19 for six years during which time he received numerous accolades, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, NCO Professional Military Education, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Tour Ribbon, Training Ribbon, Longevity Service Award and Outstanding Unit Award, and appointment to Staff Sergeant. He lead courageously in Operation Desert Shield. 

Following his service in The United States Air Force, John attended UMass Lowell and studied Engineering. He worked as a Systems Engineer excelling in his field for nearly 30 years to senior level positions in Network Systems Communications, finishing his career at HMS in Beverly, Massachusetts.

John loved sports and hiking from an early age, enjoying basketball, running, fishing, and especially hiking in The White Mountains of New Hampshire with his father and siblings, then later with his own children. He cherished spending time in nature and with animals, especially with his Rottweiler Elwood. He loved reading, travel and cooking with and for his family and friends. He enjoyed bringing loved ones together for joyous celebrations, and being in the moment. Most of all, he loved his family, especially his four children. He lived by the motto: family first.

John is survived by his parents, siblings, Stepmother Nancy Burakoff Hopwood, former wife Carmen Asteinza, his beloved children David (23), John Edward (21), William (15), and Madeline (12), and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and soul family. John will be deeply missed by everyone whose life he touched.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday April 25, 2019 at the Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Friday April 26, 2019 at Immaculate Conception Church followed by burial in the Veterans Section of Highland Cemetery both in Newburyport.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in John’s honor to The Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

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