Lasting Memories

David Stephen Prince Hopkins
Sept. 15, 1943-Feb. 21, 2025
Palo Alto, California
Submitted by Julie Hopkins Hamilton

David Stephen Prince Hopkins, cherished husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather, passed away on February 21, 2025, in a tragic ocean accident at Hapuna Beach, Hawaii. He was 81 years old.

Born on September 15, 1943, in Pasadena, California, David's life was marked by intellectual brilliance, compassionate leadership, and an unwavering dedication to improving the world around him. He graduated from Harvard College and went on to earn a PhD in Operations Research and an MS in Statistics from Stanford University. His groundbreaking doctoral work was honored with the prestigious Lanchester Prize, a recognition of excellence in operations research.

David’s career spanned academia, healthcare, and public policy. At Stanford Hospital, he played a pivotal role in advancing clinical operations as a member of the leadership team. He later served in senior positions at the Pacific Business Group on Health, where his insights helped shape healthcare performance strategies and national health policy. Even in retirement, he remained deeply engaged—mentoring fellows and researchers at Stanford’s Clinical Excellence Research Center and sharing his wisdom generously.

David’s passion for community service was lifelong. He was a steadfast supporter of Planned Parenthood and believed deeply in the importance of justice, dignity, and access to care.

David's greatest joy came from the life he built with his beloved wife, Rosemary Pusey Hopkins. Together, they shared a love of travel, a deep commitment to family, and a bond that was admired by all who knew them. He was a loving father to Susan Green, Michelle Chamberlain, Julie Hamilton, and Dave Hopkins, and a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren, whose lives he enriched with his warmth, curiosity, and gentle humor.

David will be remembered not only for his formidable intellect and professional legacy but also for his kindness, integrity, and the deep love he showed to his family and community.