Edwin Peter Popko age 83 of Kenosha passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, July 14, 2021.

Edwin, known as "Jim or Ed" to many, was born in Hurley, WI on February 11, 1938, son of the late Peter and Helvi (Sorvari) Popko.  He graduated from Hurley High School.

On August 22, 1959, he married his high school sweetheart, Jean Marie Zanella, in St. Mary Catholic Church in Hurley. They moved to Kenosha shortly thereafter and were blessed with three children.

Edwin worked third shift at AMC/Chrysler Corporation and first shift at Midwest Construction Company at the same time for over 30 years before retiring.  He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, UAW Local #72 and the Laborer's Local # 237.

Edwin's strong work ethic carried into his home life where he would help his neighbors mow their lawn, shovel their sidewalks and watering of outdoor plants.  He loved to work in his garden and sit in his backyard watch the birds, squirrels and chipmunks eat and sometimes bury the food he left out for them.  He loved watching his favorite team the Minnesota Vikings, even though he lived in Wisconsin.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean; his three children, Jamie Statz-Paynter (Steve) Paynter, Renee (Mark) Perlwitz, Ryan Jon (fiancée Jodi Tomaszewski) Popko; his eight grandchildren, Bryan Statz, Richard (Kate) Paynter, Eric (Meena) Statz; Breanne (Jon) Boultby, Andrea (Brock) Dullea, Allison Perlwitz, Ashley (fiancée Chase Muenzenmeyer) Perlwitz and Charli Grace Tomaszewski; four great grandchildren, Brooklynn Paynter, Madalynn Paynter, Hunter Paynter, Jayavel Statz; and his sister Jean Ann Popko.

He also left behind his loyal and loving dogs.

Aside from his parents Edwin was preceded in death by a sister Donna (Popko) Johnson.

Service Details

In accordance with the wishes of the Popko family, a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for immediate family at St. Mary Catholic Church.  Entombment followed in All Saints Mausoleum.