Arnold Ernest Hopper

Arnold Ernest Hopper, 92, of Fundy Royal Manor and formerly of Salem went to be with his Lord and Saviour on November 19, 2022. He passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side.

Arnold was born in Hillsborough on November 6, 1930, the son of the late Arthur and Gertrude (Wright) Hopper.  He was a quiet man who loved to work in the outdoors and enjoyed playing the guitar and singing. His faith was obvious through his words and his acts of generosity. He raised his family with his wife Pauline, making a home that welcomed their friends, their children's friends, and their family.

Arnold worked at Downey's Lumber Mill and drove a school bus for children with special needs for many years. When he was not working at his job, he was working in the woods preparing wood for the winter for his own and other families (the smell of the outdoors and sawdust are strongly associated with Arnold!).

Arnold loved music. He had a great collection of guitars that he enjoyed showing to interested visitors. He was part of a musical group that visited retirement homes to sing hymns to residents. He was a great crokinole player and would play with his grandchildren if they "promised not to cry when he won"– they all like crokinole as well. He enjoyed tapping trees in the spring and set up his own sugar shack, where he made maple syrup for his family and friends. Arnold's family was a source of joy and pride for him. He delighted in visits with his children and grandchildren, he always had a treat in his pocket to share, and he often had a small grandchild on his lap.

His quiet, encouraging presence will be deeply missed by his children, Lisa Steeves (Dan) of Sackville, Charlene Hopper (Stephen Gaudet) of Pointe Claire, QC, Darrin Hopper (Heather Gillis) of Barrie, ON, Heather Hopper Lean of Riverview, and Heidi Smith (Ron) of Moncton; his treasured grandchildren, Alicia (Joel), Christiana, Andrew (Felicia), Emily, Erin, Lauren, Gavin, Madeline, Paige, Faith, Garrett, Curtis, Duncan, Laurel, Ellyn, and Aaron; treasured great-grandchildren, Louisa and Marion; and sisters-in law, Betty Dixon of Riverview and Sandra Atkinson of Dawson Settlement. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends.

Arnold was predeceased by his beloved wife Pauline, his siblings Inez, Ronald, Omer, Frank, Mildred, Ruby, Russell, Alice, Margaret, Lewis, Donald (his twin), and Nettie. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Arnold's family thank the staff of Fundy Royal Manor for the care they showed Arnold during his time living there. Their love for him was deeply felt and appreciated.

There will be a committal service at the Shenstone Cemetery on Thursday, November 24, 2022, at 1:00pm with Rev. Rick Thomas officiating. All are welcome to attend and will have a chance to share memories.

A celebration of Arnold's life will be held at the Albert County Funeral Home on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at 3:00 pm with Rev. Rick Thomas officiating. Following the service, there will be a time for sharing memories and for refreshments at the funeral home. All are welcome to attend. Please consider wearing a mask during and after the service for the protection of those who are vulnerable.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shepody Food Bank, Camp Wildwood, Shenstone Cemetery, or a charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements are in the care of the Albert County Funeral Home, 4130 Route 114, Hopewell Cape, NB, E4H-3K2, 734-2780 www.albertcountyfh.com.