Ira A. Hopkins

Ira A. "Hoppy" Hopkins age 93 of Albion, Illinois passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at Meadowbrook Skilled Nursing and Rehab in Grayville, Illinois.

Ira was born August 8, 1929 in Astoria, Illinois to Mary Hopkins. After graduating from high school he enlisted in the Air Force. He served his country from 1947-1951 with time stationed in Japan. He was a star player on the Air Force baseball team and also served as Honor Guard for Douglas MacArthur. Ira was a sergeant at the time of his honorable discharge.

Ira married Janis F. Meserole on July 3, 1969 in Galesburgh, Illinois. They were the parents of a son, Ricky A. Hopkins I. Ricky passed away in 2010. Janis passed away June 2, 2020 just one month before their 51st wedding anniversary.

Ira then worked for the railroad for 40 years. At the time of his retirement, he was conductor of the Burlington Northern Railway. Ira and Janis then moved to Albion and were members of the Apostolic Faith Assembly where Janis attended as a child with her parents and siblings. Ira was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and he enjoyed talking with friends at the coffee shop and working in his yard.

Ira is survived by granddaughters: Alicia Hopkins and Cheyenne (Collin) Lerro and grandson: Ricky Hopkins II, a great-granddaughter Melody Lerro and a great-grandson Maycen Hopkins; Sisters-in-law: Ruth (Ralph) Tottleben, Sharon (Cebert "Butch") Wilson, Charlene O' Dell and brother-in-law Carl Stevens and many nieces and nephews.

Ira was preceded in death by his mother, his wife, son Ricky and infant great-granddaughter Hendley Hopkins.

Graveside funeral services for Ira Hopkins were held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 3, 2022 at Samaria Cemetery. The service was officiated by Brother Don Vaughan with military rites performed by the American Legion post 590 and VFW post 8222 of Albion.

Nale’s Funeral Home in Albion is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be left online at nalesfuneralhome.com.

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