Support is pouring in after Regina Chamber of Commerce announced their longtime CEO, John Hopkins, passed away Wednesday evening after a “courageous battle” against Stage 4 prostate cancer.
The Regina Chamber of Commerce announced that Hopkins made the decision to take a medical leave starting Jan. 10.
“His love for life, it was infectious, you know, if you were in a room with him, he made you smile,” said Lori Ireland, Regina & District Chamber of Commerce, board chair.
“He was just such a passionate and dedicated voice for Regina, the businesses community, for Regina as a whole. He worked tirelessly on volunteer boards, committees,” Lori said.
Among his many talents, music was a special gift of Hopkins as he took centre stage with his guitar, with close friends at a number of charity events.
“My fondest memories were getting together with John and giving him the passion of music, the healing of music and ability for us with the Garage Band and the rock cancer initiative that we did to, you know, raise a lot of money and leave a legacy for John,” recounted friend and fellow band member Murad Al-Katib.
Former Regina mayor, Michael Fougere knew Hopkins well as they worked closely for many years.
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“I’ve known him for 24 years, and enjoyed his company, we were very good friends,” Fougere said.
“His legacy is again not just for the business community, but for our Indigenous community, for homelessness and a host of other issues,” he added.
Fougere also played with Hopkins and Al-Katib in the Garage Band.
Hopkin’s friends and former colleagues said they know the various causes he championed, such as funding for cancer research and treatments, will continue to be supported by his loved ones and the many others he inspired.
Premier Scott Moe shared his condolences on Twitter, calling Hopkins a “good friend.”
“John was a man with a big heart and a generous spirit, someone who made an immense contribution to the city of Regina and the entire province,” Moe wrote.
Many others who knew Hopkins, also took to social media to share their fond memories of him.
In addition to the 20 years of involvement with the Regina Chamber of Commerce, Hopkins had done a lot of work around truth and reconciliation, the Aboriginal Education Initiative and First Nation job expos.
He also worked to help establish the Regina Trades and Skills Centre which provides people with hands-on training, education and skills to work in the trades.
Before his passing, Hopkins wrote on the Regina Chamber of Commerce website that he was stepping away to focus on his health.
“I am very proud of the many accomplishments and successes we shared together, including the wastewater treatment plant and the new Mosaic Stadium. Together, we have made a positive and lasting impact on the local economy and improved the quality of life for many Regina families,” Hopkins added.
This is a developing news story. More to come.
— With files from Global News’ Jeanelle Mandes
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