David A. Popke

We are devastated at the loss of David Popke. He was one of the most incredible people anyone has ever known. Best father in the world, husband (never said no to Lita’s jewelry addiction), son, brother (there were no in-laws or just friends – everyone was a close family member). His mother was his favorite companion. They argued, they laughed, and half the time couldn’t hear each other. “What?” was a common phrase they exchanged. He loved his mother in a way that Jesus loved his mother. A fantastic chef, Rotarian, conservative (Sean Hannity addict – 9pm no matter what), wine enthusiast, passionate (about everything and everybody he loved, and a few that he didn’t), generous to a fault, funny, sometimes childish and oftentimes goofy (check out the photo in the red long johns). Favorite places were Puerto Vallarta (can you say mas cerveza) and Beaver Island. He was one of the founders of the “Outlaws” and the “Jucy Dado” (funniest moment ever). 4th of July was the best. His impact on all our children was indelible. They loved Uncle Dave and he interrogated them on everything from their career ambitions to their love lives. And they better give the correct answer! Loved his friends, hunting, a good cigar and a fine bottle of wine. (So, we have a top shelf in our wine cellar that Lita was denied access, until now – the wake was fun). Couldn’t hear well and was always on “Popke time.” Made everyone feel welcome and important. Big heart and willing to help anyone at any time (even when he didn’t have time -- which was always). Career coach and biggest cheerleader for his children. Dream Big he always said. Claimed “his allergies were acting up” when tears streamed down his face as Kiersten announced she was going to the University of Michigan. Enthusiastically led the parent tour when Donald decided on Michigan. So, did we mention his athleticism -- QB at Benton Harbor High School, hockey recruit for the GROWLS (Lita couldn’t figure this out) and quintessential athlete who won the Beaver Island 5K, and skied, rowed, played tennis and panicked at St. Andrews in Scotland. Overworked, overzealous, “the busiest man in the world” (just ask him), and P&G is the best company on the planet. Well read, he would highlight the important parts of books for Lita, so she didn’t have to read them. His faith was admirable along with his daily bible readings and devotion to Our Lady of Good Counsel. God was the center of his life. He’s irreplaceable and he’s loved more than the words in this memorial can ever describe. #ForeverTeamPopke With Love, Lita, Kiersten & Donald In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Beaver Island Wildlife Club, P.O. Box 103, Beaver Island, MI 49782, Rotary Club of Plymouth, P.O. Box 6464, Plymouth, MI 48170 or U of M Rowing Club, P.O. Box 7164, Ann Arbor, MI 48107. To share a memory with the family, please use the share a memory tab on this webpage.

David A. Popke

November 26, 1955 - April 1, 2019