Search by Name

Search by Name

Hobie Kopczynski Obituary

SEAFORD, VA - Hobie Kopczynski, 18, passed away suddenly on Sunday, March 30, 2014. Hobie was a native and lifelong Seaford resident. He attended St. Luke's Pre-School, Seaford Elementary, Yorktown Middle School, and was a graduate of the York High School class of 2013. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Tabbmanian and Poquoson Youth Wrestling Leagues. Hobie also played center for the York-Seaford Bulldogs, Yorktown Middle School, and York High School football teams. As a senior he led the Falcons to the playoff s with his friend and quarterback of 14 years, Austin Norman, with whom he snapped the ball to over 45,000 times. He proudly served on the York County Youth Commission for three terms and volunteered with the York County Safety Town project every summer since he began middle school. He was honored to receive a mentorship to work with Dr. Paul Evans during his senior year of high school, striving toward his life's goal of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. He was a freshman at VCU working on his major of a Pre Med Degree. He loved to wash and detail cars, attend vacations with his family, eat at fine restaurants, Jet Ski, and just be with his family. Hobie had a beautiful and infectious smile, kind heart and respect for others that earned him praise from many throughout his short life. Hobie was a good boy and a wonderful man. He attended Zion United Methodist Church, Seaford. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Vincent "Ski" Kopczynski and Harry "Tabb" Smith. He is survived by his loving and devoted parents Kathy and Barry Kopczynski, a loving little sister, Landyn Kopczynski, grandmothers, Betty Lou Kopczynski and Judy Smith, aunts and uncles, Steve and Julie Kopczynski, Robbie and Sherri Kopczynski, Cammie and Jimmy Butler, and Barry Wade and Renee Smith, cousins, Hunter Kopczynski, Haley Stevenson (Jimmy), Wade, Cole and Gracie Smith, Marshall Butler who was more like his little brother, and Kristen Kopczynski, great aunt and uncles Lindy "Bubba Lin" Wade, Preston Smith (Meyong), and Julie Feeser (Frank). Hobie also leaves to cherish his memories many cousins and friends. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 3, 2014, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Crooks Memorial United Methodist Church. A Celebration of Hobie's Life will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, April 4, 2014 in Crooks Memorial United Methodist Church, Yorktown with Rev. Lisa Barbery and Rev. Kathy Gochenour, officiating. Burial will follow in Peninsula Memorial Park. The family asks that if you are able, wear blue and white if you are a York friend and black and yellow if you are a VCU friend to show unity of these communities touched by Hobie. Memorials may be made in Memory of Hobie to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Court Glen Allen, Virginia 23060. Arrangements by Amory Funeral Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Press on Apr. 2, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Hobie Kopczynski

Sponsored by Ms. Robin Ragans & her girls.

Not sure what to say?





May 8, 2014

Robin this was very sweet of you and your girls to do this, I really appreciate it very much. Bless you family Betty Kopczynski

Jim and Sherrie Haskett

April 17, 2014

Our family is so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Haskett Family

Toni-Leslie James

April 13, 2014

My sincere condolences on the lost of your lovely boy. As a VCU faculty member, and a parent that experienced the loss of our 18 year old son less than a year ago, I realize there are no words to adequately relieve your sorrow at this time. Hobie was and is a light that will be with your forever. Shakespeare, in his
infinite wisdom says it best in Constance's speech in King John, "“Grief fills the room up of my absent child, /Lies in his bed, walks up and down with me,/Puts on his pretty looks, repeats his words,/Stuffs out his vacant garments with his form." Peace and love to your family.

April 10, 2014

To the Kopczynski family: Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Bill and Eleanor Scruggs

April 10, 2014

To The Family of Hobie, Take comfort in the knowledge that you must have instilled in Hobie many wonderful qualities which was apparent by how he spent his life in service to his community and friends and family .What aloss to all of us. My heart goes out to you and the world. A Stranger That Read The Obit.

The Center Family

April 9, 2014

Kathy, Landyn, and Barry We are so sorry to hear about Hobie. All our prays are with you. Pam, Pat, and Karlyn Center

Barbara (Davis) Kidd

April 8, 2014

My prayers are with your family during this time. I only met Hobie this year at VCU and we discovered that I knew Kathy, Cammie and Barry from childhood. He was such a polite young man.

the Winfree Family

April 7, 2014

At this time take solace that you were the best parents and family you could be to a young man that turned out to be such a wonderful person. His light will shine on. So sorry for your loss.

Bob Steele

April 7, 2014

My heart compels me to send this message concerning the services held for Hobie. I have been to many services in my lifetime, but none have touched me as did this one. Not only for the great number of people who turned out, but in particular for the young people who were there. I have never seen such a humbling display of emotion as they portrayed. Some were openly crying and not afraid to do so. The passing of Hobie and the service to commemorate his life brought out a lot of love in a great number of people. So, in that sense, he continues to serve the community in a way that he was dedicated to do. I pray that God will rest his soul, bless his great family and provide them with the strength and fortitude to carry on in Hobie's name. Peace be with you.

April 7, 2014

Dear Barry, Kathy and Kopczynski Family,
Vicki and I were so saddened to hear about Hobie. A piece of you has broken off and fallen into heaven. Heaven will never be the same and neither will you. We are praying for you!
Pastor Jim Weston

Marcela Moore

April 6, 2014

I love you Kathy.

Shawnda taylor

April 6, 2014

May god keep you warmin your darkest hour. Pain is temporary memories are a lifetime

Katie Jones

April 6, 2014

Barry, Kathy & Landyn, my prayers are still with you guys. I know its hard, I went to the funeral & cried there, I know Hobie was a great, kind, generous, warmhearted boy. R.I.P. Hobie & I'll see you when my time comes, we miss you :( I'm still so upset :''(

Robert Seaford

April 5, 2014

To the entire Kopczynski family. Your whole family has been the model for us all to follow. I have very fond memories of "Ski" and his lovely bride. Your family is one of service to the community! I am so very sorry for your loss! May God bless you and comfort you. Love you all!

Vickie Sexton

April 5, 2014

Dear Barry, Kathy and Landyn, My thoughts and prayers are with you today and the weeks ahead. Hobie as you know was a wonderful person and will be missed by many many people. Rest in knowing he is with his Lord and Savior. Heaven is a brighter today because is there.Always know we are here for you, Paul and Vickie Sexton

Susan Tiemann

April 4, 2014

Dear Kathy and Barry,
Jeff and I always thought a lot of Hobie. I enjoyed calling him Hobie kat. He was so pleasant and sweet. I always enjoyed talking with him. I never saw him when he wasn't smiling. You both have been amazing parents and neighbors, friends. He will be missed. Of course, I will often send prayers your way. So very sorry.

Beth Knight Thompson

April 4, 2014

I know there are no words to express your sorrow. Know that you are all in our family's thoughts and prayers.

Lori Wilson

April 4, 2014

Having taught Hobie for 2 years I feel that I knew him pretty well. I can honestly say that he was the kindest, most respectful young man that I have ever known. His kindness and smile will be a treasured memory for all time. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family at this time. God bless you all.

April 4, 2014

Dear Barry and family, I am so deeply saddened by your heart wrenching loss. We will be praying for you and your family during this most horrible of times. Live life to the fullest every single day because we don't know when our name will be called. My heart actually hurts for all of you. God bless you and your family.
Sincerely,
Antha and Donnie Wade (Missy's mom and dad)

Cindy Dziurzynski

April 4, 2014

I was so fortunate to be Hobie's math teacher, his kindness and bright smile always lit up the room. We had many fun conversations about cars when he was at YHS. Hobie's family and friends are in my prayers. You'll be missed Hobie, we love you!

Clarence & Carol Westcott

April 4, 2014

Thinking of you Barry, Kathy and Landyn. You are in our prayers. Wishing we could do something more to ease your pain but hoping that time will help along with the love and support from your family and friends and comfort from a loving God.

Mary Matheson Fountain

April 4, 2014

Praying for peace and comfort for you and your family.

Gary & Patti Alderman

April 4, 2014

We are so saddened. We are here for whatever you need. God Bless you all, and prayers are sent upward for your family. He was a fine young man, and we are proud to have known him.

April 4, 2014

My families hearts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I know how very proud you are of Hobie and his many accomplishments. He is certainly missed and has a impact on everyone that he came into contact with. Lilly, Avery & Andrea Simms

Denise Latulipe and Family

April 4, 2014

Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers!

Derrick Brooks

April 4, 2014

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

April 4, 2014

There are no words to ease your sorrow and pain, but know that you all are in our prayers. God bless you. Lynn & Norm Kaufman (St. Louis, MO)

Vivian Smoot

April 3, 2014

Our heartfelt sympathy to all the family. Hobie was a very special young man and made his family very proud of his young life of achievements. Our prayers and love to Barry, Kathy, Landyn, Grandma Betty and Judy and all of the family. Lovingly, Vivian and H.L.

April 3, 2014

Barry and Kathy-thoughts and prayers with you all. So very sorry.
Rob and Karen (Blake) Wilhelm

Sandy Lemonds

April 3, 2014

i was so saddened to hear of your loss...my granddaughter, Savannah always spoke such kind words about Hobie....he was a true friend to her......and for that, i thank you.
he will be missed but never forgotten.....i am praying for you and your family....

Michael Campbell

April 3, 2014

From the Campbell family to yours Barry, we are so sorry for your loss. We send you prayers for your whole family.

Scott Tyndall

April 3, 2014

Barry and the Kopczynski family, as parents and friends we grieve and our hearts hurt with your family.

Hayden White

April 3, 2014

Rest in peace buddy, I remember when our mom's were both team moms at seaford and I always looked up to you. Rest easy and ill see you in another life

Julie Feeser

April 3, 2014

LUVS, HUGS & PRAYERS, sorry I will not be able to make the trip to Virginia but hope whenever we get there we are able to spend some time together. May God carry you during this time and wrap his loving arms around you and help you find peace.

Row and Troy Swackhammer

April 3, 2014

Barry, our deepest sympathies. I know our entire community is hurting with you, my friend. Please take care.

Darlene Perry

April 3, 2014

As a mother of a VCU student, my heart aches. My daughter has so many warm memories of Hobie and I had the pleasure of meeting him as my daughter returned to her dorm one Sunday evening. He was a very polite young man with a warm smile. May God bless and keep his family and friends during this difficult time.

Vicki Kornegay

April 3, 2014

Thoughts, prayers, and love to Barry, Kathy, Landyn, Judy, and all of the Smith/Kopczynski family. I cannot find words right now...
Many lives have been blessed because Hobie was a part of them. He will be greatly missed!

Kimi Stevens

April 3, 2014

Love and peace to your family, from ours.

Jack McGann

April 3, 2014

Whenever you cam over for BBqs and other events, the atmosphere was much lighter and more jubilant. You are missed by many.

Jimmy Forester

April 3, 2014

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Anna May and Chris Hopkins

April 3, 2014

Barry, Kathy and Landyn, My heart is breaking for you and your extended family! Chris and I want let you know that you all are in our prayers! Hobie was such a wonderful young man. If there is anything we can do for you please let us know.

Michelle Wintermantel

April 3, 2014

Hobie was one of my students at York Middle and then again as a freshman. I will always remember his dedication and determination to succeed in the classroom. He was a great athlete that always worked hard to improve. He will be missed dearly. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Kathey Cirillo Kuhnle

April 3, 2014

Sending love and prayers to surround you during this time.

alice mutz

April 3, 2014

Kathy and family my heart is full.word cannot express the sadness I feel for the lost of your son.

Sonia Stotler Herndon

April 3, 2014

So sorry for your loss. Keeping you in my prayers.

April 3, 2014

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Our hearts have been heavy since learning of this news. May God strenghten and comfort you now and in the days ahead. We pray that the wonderful memories of Hobie will help get you through this most difficult time. The Woodman Family

Christine (Stefanowicz) Pearl

April 3, 2014

Thoughts and prayers are with you. So sorry for your loss. Big hugs from Chicago!

Amber Thompson

April 3, 2014

Hobie was a beautiful soul and grabbed my heart when he was 5. As the parent of this young man, I can't imagine the grief you are feeling because just having the relationship I had with him over the years, the hurt has been tremendous this week. Please know that this is being felt much further than you can ever imagine to so many people because he was such a wonderful person. He will be missed by so many because he loved everyone he met whole heatedly. I will take from him so much...to love unconditionally, to be true to who you are no matter what, respect and caring to others and a smile means a million words. Rest in peace my dear Hobie and keep comforting those that loved you from afar.

American Heart Association

April 3, 2014

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

S Singh

April 3, 2014

I had only known Hobie for a short time while working with him but he was so funny and we were having a great time at work. Sad to see him go. RIP

Lisa Gatz

April 3, 2014

Barry, Kathy & Landyn,
There are no words to express how truly sorry we are for your loss. I have so many fond Seaford Bulldog memories of your family. Please know that our heartfelt prayers are with you during this tragic time. Hobie was an incredible young man who will be missed by so many. With our deepest sympathy, Lisa Gatz & boys

The Neff Family

April 2, 2014

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Sherry, Brian, Jason, Cadee Bennett

April 2, 2014

Kathy, Barry, Landyn our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We are just a phone call away anytime day or night.We love you guys. God bless you all. He will provide.

Jorj, Christina, McKenna and Hayden Head

April 2, 2014

Barry, Kathy and sweet Landyn--our family wants to extend our love and prayers to you and your loved ones during this time and the days ahead. Knowing Hobie at Seaford Elementary, he was one of the most polite and positive student I have encountered. His smile and light in his eyes will be in my memory forever. We want to support you in any way possible. We are thinking of you constantly. We are heartbroken, as we know this pain is unbearable. Prayers and love!!

Bob & Shirley Howard

April 2, 2014

Barry and Cathy,
Shirley and I offer our Sincerest and heart felt condolences, for major loss, of your son.

Tj mitchell

April 2, 2014

Hobie was always such a wonderful person,he was always there for you
I love you

David Crockett Westcott Jr.

April 2, 2014

My family's sincere condolences to the Kopczynski family. Although I did not know him well we were in Drama class together, he was an admirble person who respected all and was respected by his peers. May you find peace away from here, for thine is with the Lord.

Al and Margaret Sylvia

April 2, 2014

Barry and family, we have also lost our child, and our hearts know the raw grief you are feeling. There are no words -- we will simply pray.

Chris Owens, PFOA

April 2, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Tony Vladu

April 2, 2014

I knew Hobie at York High School. He always thought about others before himself. He was fair minded, respectful, and an outstanding student. He represented himself and the school with grace and dignity. He will be greatly missed. My condolences and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time.

Angie Drees

April 2, 2014

Kathy, Barry and Landyn, we are so very sorry for the loss of such a wonderful Son/Brother. Hobie had a smile and presents about him that just made people want to be around him. We enjoyed him from the time he was 5 or 6. Our prayers are with you all.
David and Angie Drees and Children

April 2, 2014

Hobie always knew how to make peoples day with his affectionate smile. I am so sorry to hear about this loss. Your family is in my prayers!

April 2, 2014

I am so sorry to hear of Hobie's passing. He was in my English class at York Middle School. Hobie was a fantastic student. He was also kind and well-mannered. I will certainly keep your family in my prayers. Dr. June Montgomery

The Yokum Family

April 2, 2014

Barry, Kathy, and Landyn,
We are keeping you all in our prayers. Hobie was a great person and had so many achievements already! He will be missed. Strength, peace, and comfort to you all in the days ahead.

April 2, 2014

Barry, Kathy and family.
Words can not express the heart felt sorrow Phyllis and I have for you and
your family. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Ed and Phyllis Steffy

beverly crockett

April 2, 2014

Our hearts are breaking for your family. Hobie was always so quick to smile. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Simone Stotler Hurley

April 2, 2014

I am so very sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Denise Turner

April 2, 2014

I had the pleasure of driving Hobie to school at YMS. I remember his infectious smile. I am so sad to hear of his unexpected passing. A young life cut way too short. Please accept my sympathy and prayers for you all in this time of sorrow.

Brenda Wilkerson

April 2, 2014

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Hobie was such a great young man, God needed Hobie with Him in Heaven. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.

Janis Hedgepeth

April 2, 2014

Kathy & family,

I didn't get to know Hobie personally, but know what a fine young man he must have been from conversations shared at Seaford Elementary Library. My heartfelt condolences to the entire family. I pray that all the fond memories you have bring you comfort and that the Prince of Peace surround you with His loving arms.

Janis Hedgepeth

April 2, 2014

There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your tragic loss. May comfort and peace find you. Keep faith that Ski is now guiding him thru his next journey of life. Continuous thoughts and prayers for all of you. Much love, Lisa & Ricky

Karen Moore

April 2, 2014

So sorry to hear about Hobie's passing. I remember him fondly from his time with Poquoson Youth Wrestling. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Coach Scott Wade

April 2, 2014

So sorry this happened. Your family will be in our prayers.

Sheree Fox

April 2, 2014

To the whole Kopczynski family, my thoughts & prayers are with you at the tremendously sad time. God be with you all.

April 2, 2014

We were so saddened to hear about Hobie passing. How we remember the many days and nights we all spent at York Seaford watching our kids and Hobie play football for those Bulldogs with Barry and George Teagle coaching. We cannot begin to imagine the heartbreak and loss that your family is going through at this most difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Barry, Kathy, and your entire family.
Ronnie, Suzanne, Chad, Brock and Dylan Williamson

John, laura, John Michael Paxk

April 2, 2014

Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you; that Jesus will ease your pain, and suffering knowing that he is safe with him. In loving thoughts John, Laura and John Michael Pack

DARLENE BRISTOW

April 2, 2014

SO VERY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR SON. MAY GOD COMFORT YOU ALL DURING THIS TIME.

April 2, 2014

Brother Barry,our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May God strengthen you and help ease your pain as only he can do.

Yorktown Lodge #205

Rhonda Adams-Guilliams

April 2, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this loss and will be with you in the days ahead. May your memories carry you through until you meet again.
Barry, Rhonda, & Colby

Bonnie Whitfield

April 2, 2014

Wish I was there in your time of grief. You are my family and are in my prayers. No words can make it hurt less.

Bill & Sandy Clemens

April 2, 2014

A tragic occurrence for such a wonderful, wonderful family...this is so tragic. God be with you all...you're in our hearts.

April 2, 2014

Our Hearts break for your family; Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mack & Donna McMahon

Phil & Etta Jackson

April 2, 2014

Our heartfelt prayers for all the family, and especially for Kathy and Barry, Landyn and Cammie, Jimmy and Marshall. To us, Hobie will always be the little bit older boy playing and frolicking next door with Marshall. You are such a wonderful close knit family and we know your grief is beyond words. May God comfort you all as he has taken Hobie into His loving arms.

Poquson High School Footballl Team

April 2, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family now and in the days to come.

Shari Inge-Sievers

April 2, 2014

My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time.
Hugs

Janet Harris Muscher

April 2, 2014

My prayers and thoughts are with your entire family during this very difficult time. I went to York High school with Hobie's uncles and the Kopczynski family was always so welcoming to anyone who visited their home.

Robin Ragans

April 2, 2014

Sometimes in situations as tragic as this the only words left to say are..Im so very sorry! My girls and I will be praying for your family.

Doris Taylor Williams

April 2, 2014

To Betty Lou and Judy - my heart breaks for both you and all your family members - what a great loss in a fine young man. May all the wonderful memories you have of Hobie sustain and keep you at this most difficult time. God Bless all of you and help you through this. Sending many prayers your way.

April 2, 2014

My brief contacts with Betty always impressed me with her pride in her family members. I hurt when my friends hurt. God be with you, now and always. CDR James A. Granger, USCG (Ret), former member Crooks Memorial UMC

Bob Steele

April 2, 2014

With special love and condolences to a very special family. You will live in my heart always.

Vince and Sherry Hudson

April 2, 2014

Our heart goes out to each of you during this difficult time in your lives. Please know you all are in our thoughts and prayers.

Kelly Bombaro

April 2, 2014

Thoughts and prayers continue. May God give you comfort and peace always.

Sheila Collette

April 2, 2014

Praying for peace for your family during this difficult time.

Leslie Vladu

April 2, 2014

I want to send my condolences on behalf of my husband and I. Tony said Hobie was a fantastic young man and we are both very saddened to hear of his passing. We have your entire family in our hearts and prayers.

Laurie Angell

April 2, 2014

Barry, Kathy, Landyn, and extended family; my heart breaks for and with you in the loss of Hobie. He was a tremendous young man. Always so kind, polite and respectful. You did a great job raising him and he was loved by so many. Any parent who knows him would have been so proud to call him son. Jimmy was so heartbroken to hear the news. He thought the world of Hobie as did all of his York High friends and classmates. He will be dearly missed in this world. I hope he knew how much love there was for him. May the wonderful memories of your time with Hobie outweigh the sorrow you feel today. I will keep all of you in my thoughs and prayers.

mary garrity

April 2, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Showing 1 - 100 of 102 results

Make a Donation
in Hobie Kopczynski's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Hobie Kopczynski

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Amory Funeral Home, Inc. - Yorktown

410 Grafton Drive, Yorktown, VA 23692

How to support Hobie's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Hobie Kopczynski's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more