Richard Lauren Shopen, 84, of Pocahontas, Arkansas, passed away on May 15, 2026, at Pocahontas, Arkansas. He was born on April 27, 1942, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Joseph Lauren Shopen and Geneva (Skillstad) Shopen.
Richard spent his working years as the assistant manager for the Jim Hinkle Spring River Fish Hatchery Dam 3 in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, where he enjoyed working outdoors and caring for the natural resources he loved so much. On August 1, 1972, he married Glenda Yvonne Lowry in Columbia, Missouri, and together they shared many years of love and adventure.
Richard was truly an outdoorsman at heart. He loved canoeing, hiking, kayaking, biking, volleyball, and traveling to new places. He also had a deep appreciation for animals and reptiles and enjoyed collecting weaponry and reading. Richard was a respected Sensei in Hapkido martial arts, sharing his discipline, knowledge, and passion with others throughout the years.
Above all, Richard loved and protected his family fiercely. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, intelligence, strength, and the deep love he carried for those closest to him. His faithful dog, Cody, was also a treasured companion.
He is survived by his son, Malik M. Mitchell (Allena) of Vancleave, Mississippi; his daughter, Sarah Chappelear of Pocahontas, Arkansas; three grandchildren, Zoe Farmer (Paul), Mackenzie Chappelear, and Isabella Chappelear; two great-grandchildren, Madilynn Chappelear and Oliver Farmer; his sister, Gloria Meldman of Evanston, Illinois; along with many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Glenda Yvonne Shopen; his parents, Joseph and Geneva Shopen; and his great-grandson, Remington Tyler Chappelear.
Memorials may be made to the wildlife preservation organization of your choice.
