Vintage Aircraft Heritage Foundation wishes to recognize a truly remarkable gentleman who contributed enormously to Canada’s Aviation Heritage. Much has been published regarding the life of Keith “Hoppy” Hopkinson and his contributions to aviation. It is the intention of Vintage Aircraft Heritage Foundation to provide relevant links to existing published material as well as to share some clippings and mementos from “Hoppy’s” family. Readers are encouraged to browse the family clippings and pursue the links provided to learn more about this man who contributed so much to Canadian Aviation Heritage.
Among Keith “Hoppy” Hopkinson’s many accomplishments:
Among Keith “Hoppy” Hopkinson’s many accomplishments:
- Flight Instructor
- WWII RCAF veteran
- Founder of Sky Harbour Air Services of Goderich, Ontario
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- Hoppy built and flew the first registered amateur built aircraft in Canada
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- Instrumental in founding of the Ultra-light Aircraft Association of Canada which later became the Experimental Aircraft Association of Canada
- Founding member of Canadian Owners and Pilots Association
- Inductee Into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame 2023
In addition, there are many stories surrounding the kind, caring and compassionate nature of “Hoppy”; for example, a news clipping shown below, reporting how he delivered food and medicine to the sick and stranded in a snowstorm.
IN MEMORYSadly Keith “Hoppy” Hopkinson passed in 1964. Following are a collection of clippings and mementos in his memory:
The following links provide further insight into the life and times of Keith “Hoppy” Hopkinson:
- One small step for a man, one giant leap for homebuilding, Part 1 | The Channel (ingeniumcanada.org)
- One small step for a man, one giant leap for homebuilding, Part 2 | The Channel (ingeniumcanada.org)
- One small step for a man, one giant leap for homebuilding, Part 3 | The Channel (ingeniumcanada.org)
- Homebuilding Roots in Canada | CANAV Books Blog (wordpress.com)