Richard Dopkins

Richard Marshall Rich Dopkins, born April 20, 1969 left us on May 29, 2010. Richard was born and raised in Red Bluff, the third of four children. He became the youngest owner of a Subway Shop in California, at 18 years of age. He was responsible for every phase of building and management of the stores, choosing locations in Modesto, handling construction, and management, (eventually enlisting the help and support of brother Greg the last few years of the 17 year ownership) Richard then attended and graduated in the top three of his class from a bay area finance school before relocating to Sacramento, where he spent the remainder of his life.. He was a brilliant, witty, complex, deeply sensitive, creative and mischievous guy. He lived life to the fullest: motorcycling, finding new and unusual eating places, and camping and exploring the great outdoors. He was a computer junkie. He loved all kinds of music, and created many extraordinary pieces in his home studio. He was a gourmet cook (who takes with him many recipe secrets). His great love was wife Mary Kate Finnegan Dopkins-his best friend and partner in crime. Together they shared their joy of life. He leaves behind son Richard Michael (mother Jody Padilla), who he raised as a single parent, and who he adored. He was deeply loved, and will always be in the hearts of his mother Susie Aronson of Sacramento, father and stepmother, Richard and Jocylene Dopkins of Redding, and great grandmother Betty Aronson of Davis. Also surviving him are his loving brothers and their families: Douglas Marshall Dopkins (Christine) and nephew Theo Aaron of West Sacramento; Greg (Nichole) Dopkins, niece Corina, and nephew John Aaron; and Eric (Tricia) and nieces Claire and Emily of Newport Coast. He is also survived by stepsister Jocel of Redding, and stepchildren Paul (Wenda), Alex and Aileen all of Stockton. He also leaves behind lifelong friend Brian Fredson of Chico; dear friends Steve Walker and Mike Bauer of Modesto, and many other friends whose lives he touched. He was blessed with aunts, uncles, and cousins throughout California, who he visited with often at family gatherings. He was preceded in death by: grandparents: Ralph Aronson (former mayor of Davis); Warren and Helen Strang; Gertrude Youngmark; and aunt, and uncle Sharon Young, and Aaron Aronson. A graveside service will be held at the Davis Cemetery, 820 Pole Line Road, Davis, on Monday, June 7, at 11 a.m. Richard, you are deeply and dearly loved and we will forever cherish your spirit in our hearts. Remembrances may be made to American Diabetes Foundation.

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mk Dec 31 2010 12:00 AM

Rich ~ you impacted my life in so many ways. I am grateful for the season of life in which you impacted my life. You will always be a special part of my life. Thank you for touching lives!

Patty Aug 1 2010 12:00 AM

I hope Rich was met by Aaron's embrace. I hope all your sorrows soften into the lines of a gentle song. I hope his son comes to understand that Rich's life and love is what matters, and his death is forgiveable. My condolences to all of you who love him and will miss him so very much. Wendy Watson

Wendy Watson Jun 20 2010 12:00 AM

Susie, I am so sorry to hear of Richard's passing. He had your wild & crazy humor... and big heart. My son, Corey, was a classmate/friend of Richard's and sends his regards. Much love to you, Kelly Avilla Exner

Kelly Avilla Exner Jun 6 2010 12:00 AM

I am so sorry to hear about Richard. I have a lot of fond memories of him from elementary school. He was a great guy!

Victoria Gomez Jun 5 2010 12:00 AM

Dearest Susie, Dick and entire family. I am so very sorry for your loss but grateful that you've had Richard in your lives; his spirit will be forever in your hearts and those who knew him. Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Tina Beresford Jun 5 2010 12:00 AM

My darling son. I hope you are now at peace. You have left a gapping hole in my heart that will never be filled by your loss. I shall cherish so deeply the memories I have of the wonderful times we had, and how much help you were to me in many ways. God love you sweetheart. I miss your presence so.

Susie Jun 5 2010 12:00 AM

Susie, My thoughts are prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Vickie(Jackson) Stewart Jun 4 2010 12:00 AM

We will always remember Richard as the handsome kid who had big ambitions and went after them with with a passion. He was truly a success. We loved him. Wayne, Sharon, Terrance & Bill Wilson

Wayne Wilson Jun 4 2010 12:00 AM

My favorite memory of Richard was when he wanted to be formally dressed for Valentines Day in his 2nd grade class....he came out from his room dressed in a wrinkled pink shirt, plaid jacket , green tie, slacks (every color of the rainbow was represented )and declared he was ready to go. Nothing his mother said convinced him to let her iron the shirt or to let her find some matching items. He was ready to go! Even then , Richard was an independent spirit marching to his own drummer! Although I haven't seen him in years he'll always be in my thoughts as the sweet little guy who wanted to be correctly dressed! My thoughts and prayers g out to his family. Love to you all. Jean Hanson

Jean Hanson Jun 4 2010 12:00 AM

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