ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - A fallen Illinois State trooper from the Metro-East will forever be remembered by those who travel through his hometown of Waterloo.
Family members joined with dignitaries Thursday in unveiling the "Trooper Nick Hopkins Memorial Highway" sign on Route Three.
It's a seven-mile stretch of road.
A private ceremony was held at a Columbia church before the dedication.
"Nick was known for his selfless acts and the huge smile permanently affixed across his face," said ISP Director Brendan Kelly. "Trooper Hopkins made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the people of Illinois, and his dedication and service now will be known to everyone traveling down this stretch of Illinois Route 3, as they see the sign in his honor."
"Once someone is gone, you realize how much you miss the little things," said Trooper Hopkins' widow Whitney. "Nick touched so many lives, and it continues to amaze me how many lives are still impacted by him. This highway memorial is such an incredible way to give him the recognition and remember all the kind things he did for everyone. Our family will never be the same, but we are so grateful for the memories we made and the support we receive every day from the people we love."
The 33-year-old Hopkins was killed while serving a warrant in East Saint Louis in 20-19.
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