SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— The memory of a longtime fire firefighter in Lackawanna County is already living on.
Thursday evening was the viewing for veteran Scranton Fire Lieutenant Kelly "Hoppy" Hopkins.
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Hundreds of people passed through Edward J. Chomko Funeral Home Thursday afternoon and evening to pay their respects to the man who lost his battle with cancer last weekend.
Railroad Avenue in Scranton was lined with members of the city's fire department ready to pay their respects to one of their own.
"We're feeling heartbreak in one respect but we are at peace because there's no more suffering," said Scranton Fire Department's Assistant Fire Chief Jeff White.
White has been through many battles.
Thursday was a moment of putting not his, but one of his closest friend and partner's battles to rest.
Hopkins passed away peacefully at home Sunday morning on March 16 after battling esophageal cancer.
"Every single step of the way he was not giving up without a fight," commented Jennelle Hopkins, daughter of Lt. Kelly Hopkins.
Hopkins is survived by his three daughters and son, his wife Brittany, 10 siblings, numerous nieces and nephews and four grandchildren.
"He was always there for me no matter what and he was just that guy," said Katie Hopkins, daughter of Lt. Kelly Hopkins.
Hopkins served his community for nearly 40 years, was a member of many organizations, with a presence that will never be forgotten.
"I still hear his voice and I'm going to miss him. He's irreplaceable," stated Lt. Tim O'Conner, Scranton Fire Department.
"Hoppy" was known for his dedication on duty, camaraderie with the community and infectious spirit that shined throughout the Electric City.
His fellow firefighters say he wasn't just first to the scene on the front lines, he showed up in his friendships too.
"My shingles blew off my front garage, they weren't sealed properly. Couple days later he was in the driveway with his compressor, air hose, and truck and he was up on my roof putting the shingles back on," recalled White.
The dear friend to many since day one is already deeply missed, but his loved ones will look to live out his legacy.
"We're going to miss him dearly but we are going to continue to carry on how he would want us to," voiced White.
Lt. Hopkins was 63 years old.
There will be a mass of Christian burial Friday at 9:30 am at the Cathedral of St. Peter on Wyoming Avenue in Scranton.
