Mr. Gene L. Hopwood

Hopwood, Gene L. MADISON-Gene L. Hopwood, age 69, of Madison passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, July 26, 2011. He was born on March 7, 1942, in Madison, the son of Nels and Helen (McKnight) Hopwood. Gene was a 1961 graduate of Spring Green High School. He entered the U.S. National Air Guard in January of 1966, and served in the guards for eight years. Gene worked as an auto collision technician most of his lifetime, and was self-employed at McFarland Truck and Auto Body. He was united in marriage to Gail Gibbs on May 12, 1962, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Madison. Gene will be remembered for his great sense of humor, positive attitude and kind heart. He was a strong, supportive man, always just a phone call away and ready to give a helping hand. Gene was active with the Capitol City Campers and as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout Leader with Troop 154. He was also involved with his children’s numerous school activities, including the IHM Home and School Association, the fish fries at Edge Fest, and many other committees. Gene was also very involved with his grandchildren’s activities and loved spending time with his family and extended family. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Gail; three children, Lisa (Peter Brockert) Hopwood-Newton, Ronald (Tracey Perreault) and Nicole (Adam) Augustine; grandchildren, Hayden Newton, Paul Newton, and Ryan Grant; brothers, Larry (Peg), Lyle (Joyce) and Nels; sister, Pat Fish; and numerous nieces and nephews. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Kathryn Newton; brother-in-law, Stephen Fish; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenneth R. and Dorothy Gibbs. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 30, 2011, with Father Kent Schmitt presiding. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 5 p.m until 8 p.m. on Friday, July 29, 2011, and also from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. He was the best husband, Daddy, “Pops”, brother, and PaPa that anyone could ask for. Cemetery: Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens.