Albert "Stretch" Hopper

Albert Thomas Hopper, known as Stretch, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 9, 2022, just 2 days short of celebrating his 99th birthday. Born on January 11, 1923, in Pittsfield MA, he was the son of the late Joseph and Florence Kelly Hopper. He was predeceased by his sister, Isabelle Brogan. He graduated from Pittsfield High School with the class of 1941. Al was a World War II veteran, serving from 1943 to 1946. He was drafted into the Army and stationed in Okinawa. He courageously fought in the battle of Bougainville, from which he was seriously injured. He spent the next year recovering in a military hospital. He was a proud recipient of the Purple Heart, a symbol of “Honor & Sacrifice!” Later, returning to the Berkshires (Pittsfield), he went to work for the General Electric Co. as an electrician, where he dedicated 44 years of service. During that time, on June 7, 1947, he married the woman of his dreams, Vivian Ruth Jerome, lovingly known as Shorty. They spent just short of 71 wonderful years together, until her passing on March 31, 2018. Stretch looked forward to every Thursday morning coffee & donuts, followed by a game of cards (where he was king!). He was also an avid Boston Red Sox & New England Patriots fan. Stretch enjoyed square dancing, golfing, croquet, cornhole, bowling, the horses, off track betting and going to the Casino. He especially loved being with his Family, who meant the world to him. Al was the loving dad to Pat Myers (Patsy Poops) husband Tom, Pam Harris (Memekins) husband Jim (deceased), and Chris Squires (Frissy Fritz) husband Buzzy. He was Poppa to eight grandchildren Eric, Neil and Chad Myers, Tammy Harris Gerwaski, Clifford and Russell Harris Sr & Jason and Jeremy Squires. He leaves 13 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren, as well as his loving neighbors who were always there for him (Sheila, Bobby, Goober & Shawn). While we all love you and miss you more than words, we take comfort in knowing Dad and Mom are happily reunited. Al’s family would like to extend their sincere thanks and gratitude to the very special staff at Craneville Place for taking such wonderful care of their dad during this difficult time—your outstanding kindness, compassion, and support did not go unnoticed. Funeral Notice: Funeral services for Mr. Albert Hopper will be private. Public calling hours will be Wednesday, January 19, 2022, from 4 pm to 6 pm at the Dwyer Funeral Home, 776 North Street, Pittsfield MA 01201. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter or Solider On, in care of the Dwyer Funeral Home.

Albert "Stretch" Hopper

January 11, 1923 - January 9, 2022