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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