Elda Hopkins, 83, passed away at her home on June 11, 2010, after a
lengthy battle with multiple myeloma. Funeral services will be held at
10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at Foster's Chapel with Jeff Thayer and Greg Willert officiating. Visitation will be held Monday evening 5:00 – 8:00 at Foster
Funeral and Cremation Center.
Elda Rina Baroni, daughter of Angelo and Giulia (Tonoli) Baroni, was born
June 6, 1927, in Pozzolengo, Italy. At the age of six, she moved with her
family to Argenteuil, a suburb of Paris, France, where she lived until
after World War II and the German Occupation of France. She received her
education in Argenteuil and Paris. She was employed by the U.S. Army as
an interpreter, where she met Keith Hopkins, who was stationed at the same
Army facility. They were married on December 14, 1946. She immigrated to
the United States in 1947 and became a naturalized citizen in 1950. Keith
and Elda lived in Colorado, California and Nebraska before moving to Iowa
in 1954. In 1958, the family settled in Webster City.
Elda's early years in the U.S. were spent raising her family and assisting
with her husband's farming operation. She later earned a Master's Degree
in French from Iowa State University and taught French and Spanish at
Webster City High School for 19 years, retiring in 1990. She enjoyed
teaching French and sharing the culture, history and art of France with
others. She led tours for more than two hundred students and others to
France and Spain as part of her teaching career, and into retirement.
After retiring, she volunteered in many ways in the community, but was
most passionate as a French teacher at St. Thomas Aquinas School and as
the coordinator of the Kendall Young Library annual book sale and girls'
formal tea parties. She and her husband enjoyed traveling, gardening and
being with family and friends. She was a member of a nondenominational
Christian fellowship for many years.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Bill (Nina)
Hopkins of Gilroy, California; daughters Michelle (Chan) Kershner of
Tucson, Arizona, and Josi (Bill) Greenley of Webster City; and nine
grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers,
one sister, and one grandson.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any memorials be given to the
Kendall Young Library or Hamilton Hospice.
Karen Isaacson Lund former student wrote on Jul 1, 2010:
"My deepest sympathies to your family in the loss of Mrs. hopkins. She was a wonderful Spanish teacher and thee most inspirational teacher I had. Not to mention she had the patience of a saint, we tried her patience often in class! But we all knew what a sweet and caring person she was and turned to her for guidance even outside of her class. I will always have wonderful memories of a trip to Spain with Hoppy! She will be missed."
Linda Britt, friend wrote on Jun 23, 2010:
"To Michelle and Family,
Thank you for sharing your mom with me. I will always remember lunch at Beyond Bread and being included in her visits to Tucson. Moms are very special and learning to miss them gracefully is tough. Loving them forever is the easy part.
"
Barb Willison-my husband worked for Keith & Elda i wrote on Jun 21, 2010:
"Dear Keith & family, I just learned of Elda's passing. I am so sorry to hear that. I so enjoyed our telephone visit when she called me last Christmas. She was such a grand lady and I know she will be very missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with you."
Carol Bittner Jones, former student wrote on Jun 20, 2010:
"My deepest sympathies to the Hopkins family. Senora Hopkins was a an awesome teacher and role model who allowed the love of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to show though in everything she did! When discussions of religion came up in her classroom, she was a loving and unashamed witness of her Lord! I have been very blessed to have known such an individual! Que bueno que nos podemos ver en la eternidad con nuestro Senor! Hasta Pronto, Hoppie!
--Carolina "
Jo Ann Hendricks, Non-French Speaking Friend wrote on Jun 17, 2010:
"Elda, what a wonderful addition to the Webster City Community! Hats off to you! Jo Ann Hendricks (Bahr)"
Linda Kirkconnell wrote on Jun 17, 2010:
"Aunt Elda,
You were my favorite Auntie. I loved your spunk, your sense of humor, and your intelligence. I loved how you took your students on tours overseas. I loved how kind you always were when we came to visit you."
Mélanie - devoted student and friend wrote on Jun 17, 2010:
""A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stop."Henry Adams
Ceci dit tout quant à l'influence de Mme Hop; son esprit vivra pour toujours. Tu me manques, Hop."
TRMC Cancer Center wrote on Jun 16, 2010:
"Thank you for sharing Elda with us. It was truly an adventure to see the world through her eyes.
Dr Molina, RaeAnne, Julie, Deb, Kim, Rachel"
Nina Hopkins (Breda) wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"Our life is molded by the ones who touch us. You have touched so many of us in so many ways. I am grateful for having the pleasure of getting to know you."
Milton e Adalgisa Breda wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"Descansa em paz."
Bill and Nina Hopkins wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"We will miss you. There is a big empty spot in our lives."
Breda Family from Brazil wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"From all the Breda family, our sincere condolences.
God bless you all.
"
A Friend wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"Our relationship grew over the years to become a friendship of respect and understanding; of shared joys and sorrows. Good night, dear Lady. You will be missed. "
Paul Lapôtre - French friend of the family wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"Au Revoir,
I will always keep in mind your kindness and welcome when I first exchange with Kory back in 1995. I was very honored to assist you in preparing some of your french lessons about songs.
I was thinking about coming to Webster City next year to visit you. My thoughts are for Hoppie, your childrens and grandchildrens who must feel the pain of separation. May the good memories brought by your smile heel that pain.
Au revoir
Paul, Pascale, Thomas, Benoît, Pierre and Cécile Lapôtre"
Debra Womack Hopkins, former student - '84 wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"My deepest sympathies to the Hopkins family. I feel so lucky to have had Madame Hopkins as my French teacher at Webster City High School. I will never forget the look of relief on her face as I came running up to the bus in Switzerland...after having been lost and late for our departure. I have some truly wonderful memories of my three years in her french class and our trip to France.
Au Revoir Madame Hopkins"
friend wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"Michelle and family,
I was saddened to learn of your mother's death. She was always such a lady and seemed so pleased to have young people in your home. I am sure you will all miss her a great deal. Take comfort in all the great memories you must have.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Kris Sutka Whalen"
Mindy Brown, Former Student wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"My sincerest sympathy to the Hopkins family.
I remember "Hoppy" as if it were yesterday as she prepared our class for the trip to France. We gave her plenty of trials and tribulations but she handled the grief we gave her with class and returned some grief back as well!!! She will forever be a warm, happy memory of my time in Webster City High School.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. "
An'Nyce Kelting Hoff - former student wrote on Jun 15, 2010:
"Mrs. Hopkins was a dear teacher. I was in her first Spanish class at Webster City High School. Since there were only a handful of students that took Spanish those first years, we became very close. Janis Ostlund and I were the first students who went to Spain. After hearing our stories, Mrs. Hopkins never let other students go without her! Mrs. Hopkins was so encouraging when I went back to school to finish my elementary education degree. Some teachers touch your heart...Mrs. Hopkins was one of those teachers. My sympathy to her family. An'Nyce Kelting Hoff"
Amy Nichols-Merckling, Great Niece wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Dear Uncle Keith ~ Thinking of you and your family. Very fond memories of you and Aunt Elda! With much love, Amy and Larry"
Marilyn Nutt friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Dear Keith, Bill, Michelle, Josi and your families, I think of you all with good memories of times together. Elda will be missed by many. Thinking of you with sympathy and care, Marilyn "
Karen & Van - Friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Keith - It was hard to say goodbye to Elda today, but so easy to remember all the special things about her. Our friendship and travels with you and Elda remain highlights of the past 25 years. She had a gift of making everyone feel like her 'special friend'. Her memory lives. We love you both.
Karen & Van"
Donald Bennett, former student wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"I was in Mrs. Hopkins french class throughout high school and even had an opportunity to student teach for a sixth grade class for one semester. She was a wonderful person and was very giving of herself. I can still remember the meal she prepared for the seniors at her house. "
Marilyn (Johnson) Street wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Keith, Bill, Michelle and Josi: You all have been in my thoughts since I heard about Elda. She was a SUPER lady and one of the first people I remember as a kid. Yes the oyster soup suppers and more recently just good memories. I would love to come Tuesday but you are in my thoughts and prayers. You are all neat people and Keith we love you much. "
Dean & Joyce Klenk, friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Thinking of Keith and Elda's family at this time. She will be greatly missed by family and friends alike but remembered by all of us for her faithful life. Dean & Joyce"
Caroline Vance Taylor, former student wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"I am so sorry to hear that one of my favorite teachers passed away. Mrs Hopkins had such passion for the French language and culture and shared that with her students. It made her classes memorable and I was fortunate to be able to take both French and Spanish from her. Josi, my sympathy goes to you and your family. "
Noreen and Conrad Krisher wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"We are thinking of you all during this time. Keith and Elda had always been special to us and we will always remember Elda as a funny, loving and gracious friend. She will truly be missed."
Cindy Jeffers (Van Wyhe)-former student wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"I so enjoyed learning espanol from Mrs. Hopkins, and spending dos semanas en Espana. She is missed."
Kristin Maxon-former student wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"I will never forget you...you impacted my life more than you knew..."
Martha friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"
Thinking of you all there with memories of times spent with you. Sending sympathy and care, Martha Nelson
"
Larry and Bonnie Lindemann wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"The passing of this dear friend is observed with sadness and joy. Sad because we will not enjoy another visit as we have had over the years and in recent times . . . Joy because she has affirmed her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour and will receive happy rewards for her "good works" which she showered on so many people.
Our 5-week trip together to Europe and Asia touring the "Seven Churches of Asia" and many other happy times were a highlight, but all of our times with Elda were special.
We appreciate the many happy memories and give our condolence to Keith, Michelle, Josi and Bill and their lovely families."
Chris Oliver, WCHS Graduate wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Mrs. Hopkins was an awesome person and teacher. So sorry to hear of her passing. I did not take French in H.S. but i do know what a great teacher she was!!! She always made me smile.."
Cora /Ray Meinhardt wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"We have precious memories of you ."
Friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Elda will be missed. She was a true lady, who always had a smile and a kind word. Sincere condolences to her family, my thoughts are with you. I will remember her with joy. Lisa Lynne Brown and sons: Trenton, Mike, Justin and Clayton"
Les and June Huth-friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Elda meant a lot to me and our family. I was high school principal in Webster City and Elda was dedicated to a foregin language program that would encouraged students to know the language and culture. In order that the Spanish language could receive more emphasis she returned to school to gain certification.
Personally she arranged for our oldest daughter to spend a semester in Spain and as a result four of our childres lived with this same family in Spain and their children lived with us.
She was also committed to a strong set of values and making life better for many people. She will be missed.
Les and June Huth"
Friends wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Thinking of you all at this time. With love & sympathy, Leah & Adele"
Barbara Eicher / friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"We were friends with Elda & Keith for years and my folks went on trips with them to France. We often make a desert with her recipe we call Elda's desert. She'll be greatly missed."
Kendra Rotschafer Bittner, former student wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Adios a Senora Hopkins! Gracias para todo. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to travel to Spain in 1981 with Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins and the other students. What a wonderful, inspiring lady who will be missed. My sympathy to Mr. Hopkins and the family."
Wayne Prescott wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"As a high school teacher today, having Hops as a role model is a big reason I am where I am today. My love of international travel also started in earnest on the 1980 WCHS trip to France she led.
Her high expectations and rigor, balanced with her soft side and gentle kindness, will always be rememebred. I will never forget the petit déjeuners in class on days when we behaved, and the translating of Sartre into English we did not!
Adieu, Madame. My sympathies and thoughts go out to Keith, Josi and her family."
Rick & LInda Swanson, friends wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"We, like so many others will miss dear Elda. She was a wonderful lady and we always enjoyed our visits with her at convention time! Thinking of her family in their sorrow..."
Jeanne Hill wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"Madame Hopkins was a treasure to our community. I was fortunate to know her first as my French teacher, second as a teaching colleague at WCHS, and finally, and most importantly, as a friend. Because of Madame, I was introduced to France, and Europe in general. We all lost someone who gave so much to so many!!"
Lynette Lee, friend wrote on Jun 14, 2010:
"I am so glad that I stopped in to see Keith and Elda after the mtg. at Webster City this March. Thinking about you all and sorry we won't make it back to Iowa in time for the funeral. With care, Lynette lee"
Annette (Peterson) Miller wrote on Jun 13, 2010:
"Mrs. Hopkins was my favorite teacher. What made her truly special was her ability to make others feel special. Every visit back to Webster City included some time spent with her and sharing the latest goings on. I will always cherish our friendship."
Maria Reveiz Filippone wrote on Jun 13, 2010:
"I feel so lucky to have had Mrs. Hopkins as a teacher in HS Spanish and in our trip to Spain. She was very strict and expected a lot from her students. If you had a good attitude and tried your hardest, she was so kind and nurturing. I am lucky to have known her. My deepest sympathies to her entire family. Mrs. Hopkins was a gem. I have nothing but good memories of and warm feelings for her. "
Don and Sharon Wierwille wrote on Jun 13, 2010:
"Thinking of you, the family, with sympathy. Elda was always smiling and I know everyone will miss her very much.
Don and Sharon (Goodlaxson) Wierwille"
Greg and Leaann Anderson wrote on Jun 13, 2010:
"Our sympathy to all of the family. WE always enjoyed visiting with Elda and her kindness. She will be missed."
friend and colleague wrote on Jun 13, 2010:
"adios senora===we had some wonderful times teaching together and sharing our love of travel and culture===su amigo kendall natvig"
Kathy, a friend wrote on Jun 13, 2010:
"Elda=a lady of great spirit - the kind that lasts forever.
"
John, Ginna, Benton and Stefanie Walker wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"Elda was our special friend. She helped us plan trips to Europe and was so helpful when we hosted a French teenage boy in our home one summer. My first memory of Elda was when I was a kid and she fixed us Rootbeer floats when our family visited the Hopkins farm in WC. My grandparents loved traveling with and visiting Keith and Elda. This is the close of a very good life well lived. We cherish the memories. "
Jim and Diana Swanson Friend wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time."
Wendy "Orr" Mather- Friend wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"I remember Elda telling our little meeting in Fort Dodge that she was going to France again. I was excited for her and interested in what she would see. She told me about the people in the carts along the streets in Italy that sell things.
Later on their return Elda handed me a small pkg. and told me to open it when I got home. On doing that I found a beautiful black, tan and yellow gold scarf. She later told me that she had bought it at one of the little carts. I still have that scarf and wear it often. I always remember her when I do wear it and always will.
You will be missed "Dear Lady""
Paul & Norma Vlieger, friend wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"We were saddened to hear about Elda I always enjoyed our Special Visits at Special Meetings & Convewntions. You are in our thoughts & prayers. Love, Norma & Paul Vlieger "
Leroy Forsberg friend wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"My thoughts are with you Hoppy as I think of your loss. Many beautifull memories are what you now have wrapped in your heart. A friend a little frither down the road. Leroy Forsberg"
Tamara Curtis (Bartlett) wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"Ms. Elda, you will be most dearly missed. I cherrish the time spent with you in Iowa, Europe and AZ. Thank you for your wonderful friendship. Rest in Peace!"
Mike and Shirley Johnson, family from Ohio wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"It was nice always having that personal Christmas call from Elda. And she had called just a few weeks ago thanking me for the Prayer Shawl I had sent. So happy to hear that it gave her comfort. We will always remember our trip to Iowa when our three daughters were young, the wonderful meals that Elda cooked and Mike working with Keith sorting pigs for market. These are fond memories."
friends in the Truth wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"We didn't personally know Elda, but remember seeing her at Malcom Conv. It is always encouraging to look upon one's life that has lived in faith and finished in faith. Our sympathy goes out to her family and loved ones.
Rich and Betty Carpenter Sherrill, Ia.
"
Chris Bubany wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"Elda lived a wonderful and interesting life. She gave so much to her community, and I know she will be missed."
Dave & Judy Starling wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"Our thoughts and sympathy are with the family these days. Elda was a smiling, lovely, lady whom all will miss."
Darwin, Faye & Breanna Klenk wrote on Jun 12, 2010:
"Elda was a very special lady and friend. I always enjoyed visiting with her about various subjects. Breanna loved going to your house for bible study when she was in college. Our thoughts and care to all her family."
John and Lora Stidolph wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Special memories of one who was special to us. Our thoughts and care continue. Love, John, Lora and Chet"
friend wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Elda was a wonderful, loving and spirited lady and so admired for her grace and style. Sincere condolences to the entire family. With fond memories and caring thoughts, Joni Brown Oestreich"
Bob & Susan Lindemann wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Please accept our sincere sympathy on the passing of Elda. We always enjoyed visiting with her thru Larry and Bonnie. Remember all the good times. Best Wishes. Susan and Bob Lindemann"
Mary Weeda wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Want to add a note of sympathy from Florida. I have many memories of times in Keith and Elda's home."
Carolyn Williams, friend wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"I am so glad that Elda called me and gave me her Christmas card on the phone a few years ago. She and I were in the French program at ISU in the late 60's;we were those older students. We kept in touch via Christmas cards thru the years but until she called I didn't know she was ill. I am so happy that Ron and I were able to see her and Keith in Webster City on our way through the state a year or so ago and to be able to wrap her in a soft, warm prayer shawl. She was a wonderful, special lady. We weep for her loss but rejoice for her life!
Carolyn & Ron Williams "
HARRY & CAROL BLACK wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"ELDA WAS A LIFE LONG FRIEND AND MY PARENTS HELPED KEITH AND ELDA MOVE TO THE MARSHALLTOWN AREA. SHE WILL BE MISSED AND WE ALWAYS HOPED WE COULD TAKE A TRIP WITH HER TO FRANCE. WE ARE SORRY AND SHE WILL BE MISSED. HARRY AND CAROL BLACK"
Friend of the family wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Michelle and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your mother. My condolences and prayers.
Terry Ross Dutcher"
Allen & Marjorie Weeda close friends wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Always sadness when there is a loss but Joy with a faithful finish. "
Dan Eicher wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"We have lost a dear friend. She will be sadly missed but she is in a better place. Dan & Mildred Eicher"
Dean & Patsy Lewerke Friends wrote on Jun 11, 2010:
"Elda was a sweet kind gracious lady we enjoyed the many years attending fellowship meetings with her and Keith. She will be missed by the church in WC. Our thoughts are with the family and the WC Church"