James Andrew Andy Hopponen, age 47, died Friday, April 2, 2010, at Brookview Manor in Brookings. He suffered with malignant progressive multiple sclerosis for several years before he entered Brookview Manor in 1998. Memorial services will be 2:00 P.M. Monday, April 12, 2010, at First United Methodist Church in Brookings.

Andy was born April 27, 1962, in Wichita, Kansas, and joined the family of Raymond and Mary Helen (Robinson) Hopponen. The family lived in Lawrence, Kansas, until they moved to Brookings in 1966. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, attended Brookings public schools, and was in the graduating Class of 1980.

Andy worked at HyVee and Coast to Coast Warehouse before he moved to Sioux Falls where he was employed in several work settings. After a few years his newly diagnosed MS forced him to move back to Brookings where he lived independently for a short time before moving to Brookview Manor.

Survivors include his mother, Mary Helen Robinson Hopponen; sister, Lisa (Dan) Barnhart and their three sons, RJ, Nathanael, and Tryphon; son, Chad Bach; and many friends. He will be remembered by his many friends and family for his energy, his friendliness, and generosity. His friends were truly his greatest pleasure and responsibility.

The family is appreciative of the caring professional and personal support extended to Andy and the family by the Brookview Manor staff, and for Dr. Rick Holms kind professional guidance for all in Andys struggle with life and death.