In Remembrance Of
Michael Hopkins
Michael Hopkins, 56, born December 8, 1969, in Wichita, Kansas passed away on May 31, 2026, at his home in Gladstone, Missouri.
Family and Loved Ones
Michael Hopkins is lovingly remembered by a large and close-knit family. He is survived by his father, David E. Hopkins, and stepmother, Peggy Hopkins, as well as his mother, Esther “Jeanene” Spurgeon Buscher. Michael’s son, David M. Hopkins, daughter-in-law Katlin Hopkins, and grandson Arthur Hopkins was a source of pride and joy in his life.
Michael also leaves behind his sisters, Kathlene “Kat” Hopkins Hindman and Roberta “Bobbi” Hopkins Reed, and his brother, James Buscher. He cherished his nephews, Aaron “Christopher” Olson, Timothy Martin-Olson and his wife Susie, and Brandon Hindman. His niece, Corinne Dunn, and her husband Erik Dunn held a special place in his heart. He was a beloved grand uncle to Zayne Olson and niece Cameryn Dunn.
Beyond his immediate family, Michael was deeply connected to a wide circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins, too numerous to name individually. He cared for each member of his family, whether they were near or far, and his love for them was unwavering.
Life Journey and Cherished Memories
Throughout his life, Michael embarked on a journey that took him from Kansas to Alaska, and eventually to Hawaii, where he graduated from Konawaena High School in 1989. Following his graduation, he began working at the Hyatt hotel in Waikoloa. Michael later relocated to Kansas, Missouri, and then to Arizona, embracing new experiences and opportunities along the way until returning home to Missouri.
Michael deeply valued his relationships with his siblings. He looked forward to daily conversations with his sister Bobbi during her lunch breaks, a tradition that brought them closer together. He also cherished the time he spent living with his sister Kat and nephew Christopher, where they would enjoy watching movies, cooking and baking cookies together. One of Michael’s favorite activities was taking Christopher across the street to the antique store, searching for comic books with the hope of sharing them with his grandson one day. Additionally, he found joy in riding his e-bike around town, savoring the sense of freedom it gave him. You could always find him listening to music on his headphones, and he wouldn’t say no to a game of poker or rummy.
Above all, Michael’s greatest happiness came from spending time with his son, daughter-in-law, and new grandson, especially when they gathered to watch Kansas City Chiefs football games. For Michael, the moments spent with family and friends were the most meaningful, and he cherished every opportunity to be surrounded by those he loved.
Memorial Service: 6:00 p.m. Friday, June 5th at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Smithville, MO with visitation following until 8:00 p.m.
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Service Details
6:00 p.m. Friday, June 5th at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Smithville, MO with visitation following until 8:00 p.m.
Comments & condolences
4 comments
Christine Andersen
It was fun knowing Michael as a child. Our families were always very close. Our Mom’s being cousins close in age were close from childhood, and as life moved forward. At times we weren’t always physically close, and were far enough apart to lose track of the every day lives we all lead, but get back together, and it was like no time had passed at all.
We got the opportunity to live close again here in Arizona, hang out, and catch up. We got to meet and know David before he and Jeanene relocated back to Kansas City. I’m thankful your path brought you all back together in Kansas City where you got to share your families milestones and celebrations. What a blessing to have been there for everything these past few years as your family grew; a Daughter via marriage, and a grandson. Congratulations.
I missed talking with you this year at tax time. I’m sorry I didn’t reach out, if just to say hi. I’m sorry more that I won’t be able to again. You have been missed, you are missed, and you will be missed.
LeeAnn Lortie
I’m at a loss for words for the loss of Michael and so very sad. Aunt Jeanene, I think back to when I got to stay with you in Winfield and always considered Michael a great cousin. And when you came back from the Hawaii, we all got to hang out, and of course, when he went to live with uncle Ted and aunt Patsy. I was able to see him even more. I’m so happy that he got to live so close to David and be close to all of you again before his passing and that you were all able to be in Kansas and Missouri, so close to where it all started.I love you all.💙 we are praying for comfort and peace as you navigate through this difficult time.
Zina Cottle
Michael and I were cousins who were close in age and so we always hung out at family gatherings or when our families would visit one another. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Michael’s family and friends through this difficult time. When Michael moved to Missouri, I was happy for him… he would be living close to his son and family. Michael was so lucky to live close to David and see him daily, what a blessing. Michael had some challenging times, but was always friendly and smiling at others. He will be missed.
Fern Marie Mattke
David, Katlin & all The Hopkins family. My heart aches for all of you. Treasure all the wonderful memories of times spent with your dad, David. May the love of God & others surround you & give you peace🤗❤️ Grandma Fern Marie Mattke