Byron Hopwood

Byron Hopwood, 84, Courtenay, ND, passed away on Friday, July 20, 2012 at Eventide at Hi-Acres, Jamestown.

Byron was born August 12, 1927, in Corinne Township, Stutsman County, ND, the son of Erbie and Bertina (Thu) Hopwood. He grew up on the family farm, attending school in Corinne Township through eighth grade and graduated from Courtenay High School in 1945. He farmed his entire life in the Courtenay area, officially retiring in 1992 but continued to be active in the day to day farming operations with his son and grandsons.

Byron married Lois (Koloen) Bollingberg on December 21, 1970 at First Lutheran Church in Fessenden, ND and became a loving father to her three children, Leif, Beth and Del Mari.

Byron was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Courtenay, ND until its closing in June 1982 when he became a member of United Presbyterian Church in Jamestown. He served as clerk of the Corinne School Board, Assessor of Corinne Township, Board of Directors of the Courtenay Co-Op Elevator, and Trustee of the Courtenay Presbyterian Church.

Byron enjoyed collecting John Deere toy tractors, watching sporting events, morning coffee with friends in Courtenay, staying in touch with all of his relatives including his siblings, nieces and nephews, cousins, and other distant relatives. His family and friends were a very important part of his life and were a source of strength during his recent health issues.

During Byron's retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his family, wintering in Surprise, AZ and attending grandchildren's events. He looked forward to his Tuesday night card group during Arizona winters where much laughter and joking took place. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and the birth of his great-grandson, Jacob in November 2011 was a highlight of his life.

Byron is survived by his wife of 41 years, Lois; his children, Leif (Marcia) Bollingberg, Courtenay, ND, Beth (Tim) Haugen, Fargo, ND and Del Mari (Kim) Runck, Alexandria, MN. Also surviving are his precious grandchildren, Nicholas (Kendra) Haugen, Adam Haugen, Grant (Jennifer) Bollingberg, Jessica Runck, Ross Bollingberg, Dane (Alicia) Bollingberg, and Spencer Runck; and one great-grandson, Jacob; three sisters, Doris Nogosek, Jamestown, Helen Wang, Fargo and Betty (Doug) Barker, Rogers, MN; two brothers, Robert (Donna) Hopwood, Peoria, AZ and Erbie (Bernice) Hopwood, Sharon, ND; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his half-brother, Donald; and grandson, Thomas Runck.