Stephen Paul Hopkins

Stephen Paul Hopkins July 5, 1945 - July 30, 2025

Stephen Paul Hopkins, an entrepreneur and beloved family man, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Naples, FL, after a courageous battle with COPD. He was 80 years old.

Born in Boston, MA, Steve is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra Belle Schnetzky Hopkins (Sandy), and his cherished daughters, Heather Ann Hopkins of Arlington, VA, and Kimberly Belle Hopkins of Naples, FL.

Steve grew up in Westport, CT and attended Michigan State University. There he met Sandy while serving as the social chairman of Pi Sigma Kappa fraternity. They were inseparable and got married six days after graduation, culminating in a 60th wedding anniversary celebration this past June.

In 1975, Steve co-founded Olympic Adhesives, Inc. in Norwood, MA, alongside John E. Murray and Paul C. Ryan. Under his leadership, Olympic grew into a global leader in environmentally safe, natural, protein-based adhesives, synthetic industrial adhesives, and coating products. Steve built the business alongside the incredible employees who became like family to him. He loved leading and growing the sales team. Olympic Adhesives and the people who made it a success were a great source of pride and friendship throughout his life. The company's recent 50th anniversary was a testament to Steve's enduring vision and the strong foundation he built.

A man of deep faith, he was a devoted member of the Episcopal Church. He brought up his children in the faith at St. Andrews Church of Wellesley, MA. His generous spirit touched everyone who knew him, and he took great pride in providing for his family and supporting his community.

He divided his time between Massachusetts and Florida, where he ultimately retired to full time. He enjoyed playing golf, taking long walks for exercise and he was always up for a political debate. Known for his social nature and culinary talents, he delighted in bringing people together around a grill or the dinner table. Sandy was the social chair at their condo association, The Vistas. Steve was her most loyal assistant and together they took great pleasure throwing parties for their fellow friends and residents. Throughout his life, Steve found joy in the companionship of the family's five Shih Tzus, each holding a special place in his heart.

Two memorial services will be held this fall to celebrate Steve's life and intern his ashes. One will take place at St. John's Episcopal Church in Naples, FL, and the other at the Town of Dover Cemetery in Dover, MA. Dates will be announced shortly.

Steve's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, wisdom, and entrepreneurial spirit. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.