HOPKINSON

RONALD "RON" P.

Age 80 of Aspinwall, passed away suddenly on January 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, following a cerebral hemorrhage.

Ron was the beloved husband of the late Patricia "Patty" Hopkinson, and devoted stepfather to the late Michael J. Miller, Linda Ryan (Brendan), and Barbara Miller. He was a wonderful and loving grandfather to Lauren and Kevin Ryan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claire Darrigo and Mervin Hopkinson. Ron is also survived by his siblings, Carol Lenhart, Gary (Fela) Hopkinson, and Debbie (James) Stuckman. Ron was a much-loved uncle to his many nieces and nephews, as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom cherished him deeply.

Ron was born and raised in the Allentown neighborhood of Pittsburgh, where, as a young child, he developed a fascination with music and collecting records. What began as a hobby grew into a lifelong passion for music, entertainment, and bringing joy to others.

After graduating from South Hills High School, Class of 1963, Ron proudly served in the United States Army. He often recalled his days at his first job, at Isaly's and crafting their famous skyscraper cones, that sold for 10¢. After earning his associate degree from Robert Morris University, Ron spent his professional career as a computer systems analyst with HALCO Mining. He especially enjoyed the travel his work allowed and loved sharing those experiences with Pat whenever possible.

Ron's passion for spinning records earned him many nicknames, including The Hat Guy, DJ Ron, and Rock 'n' Ron. For 23 years, Ron was the house DJ on Friday nights at the Regina Elena Club in Sharpsburg, where he and Pat loved to dance, laugh, and build lasting friendships. For decades, Ron never missed an opportunity to DJ -- whether it was singles dances in West View, many out of state weddings, the Jitterbug Club in Myrtle Beach, or numerous Aspinwall community events. He was especially proud to have played music for more than 500 weddings, and if you knew Ron well, you knew that he dressed as Elvis every Halloween.

We believe in this moment Ron would say, in his best Elvis voice, "Thank you... thank you very much."

The family will receive friends on Monday, January 12th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the WEDDELL-AJAK FUNERAL HOME, 100 Center Avenue, Aspinwall. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 13th, 10 a.m. at Christ the King Parish, St. Scholastica Church, 309 Brilliant Avenue, Aspinwall. Burial will follow with Military Honors at St. Mary Cemetery, O'Hara Twp.

In lieu of flowers or gifts the family asks that donations be made to Aspinwall Neighborhoods at http://aspinwallneighbors.org or to Second Harvest in Sharpsburg at http://www.secondharvestthrift.com