David Wellington Hopkins

HOPKINS David Wellington Hopkins, 56, of Edgewater, native of Albany, NY; passed away peacefully April 18, 2012 after a long illness. David served as Lincoln Park Lagooners' Chairman of the Board for several terms, during which time they were inducted into Chicago's Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame. A former I.T. Director, he also loved cars, trains, camping, and boating. David was an accomplished pianist in his youth, loved to cook, and enjoyed throwing a great party. Beloved partner of 25 years to Randy Scott Rozler; cherished son of Grace Rossi Hopkins and the late Wellington "Bill" Hopkins of Albany and Englewood, FL; dear brother of Grayce Waldbillig of Albany and Donna Marie (William Renner) Merchant of Syracuse, NY; preceded in death by his beloved fat cat of 16 years, "Schmooties". David leaves behind a loving family of "in-laws" in Buffalo, NY, as well as a large Chicago "family" of cherished friends, including but certainly not limited to: Bert, Brian, Daniel, Dean, George, Jonathan, Kieth and Ralph. "David darling, enjoy the adventure of our 'Wellscott Island' and know that you will always be in all of our hearts" All are welcome to attend a celebration of his life on Saturday, May 5, 2012, 6-9pm (7pm sharing of memories) at Service is Us, 5459 North Broadway Street, Chicago, IL 60640. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Illinois Eye Bank, 800-548-4703 or www.illinoiseyebank.org. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Illinois, 773-281-5058 or www.cremation-society.com.