San Diego Union-Tribune

Robert Larry Hopkins '50, 92, died June 24, 2010. Bob was born in Vandalia, Ill., July 27, l917, the third of 13 children to Cliff and Amy Hopkins.

A career military man, Lt/Col Hopkins, "Hoppy," was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. He fought in World War II where he was a prisoner of war for nine months, flew in Korea and Vietnam. As a decorated veteran, he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Bob met his bride, Virginia Nokes during World War II and married her shortly after the war in 1946. Together they discovered the excitement and rewards of military life.

Bob is survived by daughter Mary; son Peter, and granddaughter Michelle.

Donations may be sent to San Diego Hospice; (619) 278-6587; www.sdhospice.org/donate.htm.