Robert Eugene Hopkins Jr.

Robert (Bobby) Eugene Hopkins Jr., 71, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on December 27, 2025, following a long and bravely fought battle with cancer. Bobby lived with unwavering strength, deep loyalty, and an immense capacity for love. His family meant everything to him, and he showed it every day through his presence, his protection, and his devotion. He moved through life with a grounded heart and a spirit that was uniquely his. Bobby dedicated 36 years to the Kellogg Company, where his strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment were evident every day. He took pride in his work and believed in showing up, doing things the right way, and standing by his responsibilities—values he carried throughout his life. Bobby had a natural way with people. He was warm, welcoming, and genuine, with a sense of humor that could brighten a room and ease even the toughest moments. He made others feel comfortable and included, often turning acquaintances into friends and friends into family. His laughter and presence will be deeply missed. A lifelong sports fanatic, Bobby found joy not just in the games themselves, but in the camaraderie and connections they brought. He played softball for many years, loved spending time on the golf course, and was a longtime member of a bowling league. He also enjoyed refereeing, which kept him close to the sports he loved. Among all his Michigan teams, none held his heart quite like the Detroit Lions. He was a devoted, unwavering fan through every high and low, never giving up hope and always believing the next season would be the season—loyal to the end, just as he was in life. Bobby also loved to travel, embracing new places, new experiences, and the people he met along the way. He enjoyed telling stories that reflected his humor, his heart, and his love for connection. Those stories and memories will continue to be shared and cherished by all who knew him. Bobby is survived by his beloved wife and partner in life, his forever, Colleen Hopkins; his daughters, Courtney Conley and Holly (Todd) Lee, who were the pride of his life; his daughter, Devon Hopkins; and his son, Ronald Reyenger. He was a proud grandfather to Aaron (Sadie) Rainey, Johnny (Stephanie) Samples, Crystal (Josh) Merrill, Justin Vinton, Joey, Cherry, Lucille, and Oliver Reyenger, Anthony, Dominic, and Louie Campagna, Jonelle and Mackenzie Lee, as well as many beloved great-grandchildren. He is also lovingly remembered by his faithful companion and beloved dog, Blue, who was rarely far from his side. Bobby will be remembered for his strength, his loyalty, and the love he poured into his family and friends. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he passed on to those who loved him most. And somewhere, we like to believe he will still be cheering on the Lions, just as he always did. A service honoring Bobby’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 7th at 2:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m., at Richard A. Henry Funeral Home, 703 Capital Ave. SW, Battle Creek, MI 49015. A celebration of life will follow immediately after the service at The PNA, 15 Clair St., Battle Creek, MI 49014— Just the way he would have wanted—family and friends gathering to laugh, share memories, and raise a toast in loving celebration of a man who cherished life and the people who filled it. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan in gratitude for the compassionate care they provided.