Paul Joseph Popelka

Obituary

Paul Joseph Popelka was born on May 2, 1933, in Glencoe, Minnesota. He was the son of Paul C. and Louise (Penas) Popelka. Paul was baptized as an infant on May 7, 1933, at Church of St. George in Glencoe, Minnesota, and was later confirmed in his faith as a youth. He received his education at Stevens Seminary and was a 1951 graduate.

On December 9, 1961, Paul was united in marriage to Mary Rand in Glencoe. After their marriage, the couple made their home in rural Glencoe where they raised six children, Mike, Dave, Ron, Larry, Carrie and Tammy. Paul and Mary shared over 43 years of marriage until Mary passed away on May 12, 2005. Paul served in the Air Force from 1952-1956. He was employed as a diesel mechanic at Haukos Brothers and Teply Equipment in Glencoe.

Paul was a life member of the Church of St. Pius X in Glencoe and a life member of the Glencoe VFW Post #5102 and of the Glencoe American Legion Post #95.

Paul enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards, especially Sheephead, Buck Euchre and Cribbage. He was a man of few words, never complained, had a big heart and a good sense of humor. Paul could fix anything, and was a good provider who led by example. He was a very humble man that was loved by many. Paul cherished the time spent with his family, especially his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Paul passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2019, at the Ridgeview Medical Center in Waconia at the age of 86 years, 2 months, 28 days.

Blessed be his memory.

Paul is survived by his:
Children, Dave Popelka and his significant other, Pam VonBerge, of Glencoe, MN,
Carrie (Paul) Fedor of Sauk Rapids, MN,
Tammy (Jeff) Pesek of Arlington, MN;
Daughter-In-Law, Diane (Scott) Chapman of Watertown, MN;
Sweetheart, Dorrine Scharping of Arlington, MN;
Grandchildren, Cory (Lindsay) Popelka of Silver Lake, MN, Brittany (Jesse) Mace of Dillon, CO, Emma Fedor of Sauk Rapids,
MN, Madison Rechtzigel of Arlington, MN, and Ellise Fedor of Sauk Rapids, MN;
6 Great Grandchildren;
Sisters, Dorothy Hanson of Mound, MN, and Louise Artmann of New Germany, MN;
Nieces, Nephews, many other relatives and friends.

Paul was preceded in death by his Parents; Wife, Mary; Sons, Mike, Ron and Larry; Siblings, Elaine Frauendienst, Jerome Popelka, and Rachel Evans.