Tristan D. Hopkins, 5, of Emlenton passed away Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh.  Tristan fought a courageous battle for three months with lung complications, but continued to remain “Tristan tough”.

Tristan was born August 19, 2011 in Pittsburgh.  He was the light of his parents’ life, Alison (Lee) and Colt Burk.   He also was the biological son of Robert Hopkins. 

Tristan attended the IU6 preschool class at AC Valley for three years.  He looked forward to seeing his school buddies and was eager to learn in class.  He adored the amazing aides and teachers in the IU6 program and especially loved his teacher Miss Carrie, who would come and do school activities at his home when he was unable to attend school.  He made many friends at West Park Rehab in Franklin where he had fun doing physical therapy with the staff, especially swimming. 

Tristan was above all a smart, kind, loving, friendly, polite, full of spunk, absolutely perfect little boy.   Even though Tristan faced challenges, he would always be smiling and happy to see everyone.   Like any little boy, Tristan loved his trucks & tractors and would hop on the mower any chance he got.  Tristan enjoyed fishing, riding his four wheeler, playing outside, and just “being a boy” as he would say.  No one enjoyed music more than Tristan.  He could carry a tune and sing all his favorite songs while dancing to the beat.   He and his family made each day full of love and happiness.  Tristan was a true blessing in their lives and he will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to be a part of his incredible life. 

Loved ones left to cherish Tristan's memory are his parents Ali and Colt, his grandparents Wendy & Mike Stohon, James Lee, Jim and Lori Burk, and Dan & Bobbie Hopkins.  His great grandparents Nancy Smith, Jake & Nancy Lindsey, Jim & Thelma Burk, and Robert Kostryk.  Great-Great grandparents Norman & Norma Trimble and Vera Riddle.  Many numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends also will keep Tristan close to their heart. 

Tristan was welcomed to heaven by his great grandpa Allen “Pappy-do” Smith & his Uncle Christopher “Toot” Smith. 

Family will receive friends at the Larry E. McKinley Funeral Home on Friday, July 21, 2017 from 6-8.  Visitation will be again on Saturday July 22, 2017 from 1-5.   A celebration of Tristan's life will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2017 at the funeral home at 11:00 am.  Vince Forsythe will lead the time of remembrance and all are welcome to come and share memories of this amazing boy. 

The family has suggested everyone to wear their Tristan Tough t-shirts on Sunday, (or something blue and orange since those where his favorite colors).  They welcome the casual attire and hope to see lots of blue and orange. 

Ali and Colt would like to express their gratitude to the many nurses, doctors and care staff at Children's Hospital who helped in anyway taking care of Tristan throughout his battle.  They also suggest memorial donations can be made to the Pulmonary Research at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in honor of Tristan.  Checks can be mailed directly to Children’s Hospital of Pitt Foundation, Central Plant, Floor 3, 4401 Penn Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15224, or online at givetochildrens.org. 

Friends can email condolences by visiting www.mckinleyfuneralhome.net   

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