Edward A. KopkaJr. Obituary
Edward A. "Ed" Kopka Jr., 66, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, at Covenant Health Care in Saginaw after a brief illness. Born on July 30, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan, Ed was the cherished son of the late Edward Sr. and Carol (Hildebrant) Kopka.
Ed's life was one marked by love, laughter, and creativity. He graduated from Pinconning Area High School in the Class of 1977, where he was known for his quick wit and easy smile. On July 31, 1998 in Standish, Michigan, Ed married the love of his life, Frances "Fran" Hall, and together they embarked on a journey filled with adventure and mutual support.
Ed was a self-employed Reiki master and a talented wood carver, known for his unique caricature designs that brought joy to many. His work was not just a craft but an extension of his spirit, and through it, he touched the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him and his art.
Ed was a man who embraced life with enthusiasm and a sense of wonder. He and Fran enjoyed their boat rides, watching the sunset in quiet companionship, and traveling to explore new places across the USA. His love for travel was matched by his skill as a pool player, where his competitive spirit and humor were always on display.
An advocate for an organic, healthy lifestyle, Ed was as nurturing to his body and mind as he was to his relationships and the earth. His approach to life was holistic, and he believed in the power of natural healing and living in harmony with nature.
Those who knew Ed will remember him as a loving husband, a funny storyteller, and a creative soul who could find beauty in the simplest of things. His legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Fran; his special niece, Cristie McLennan; his brother, Scott (Carolyn) Kopka; his niece, Chelsea Hitt; and several other nieces and nephews. Ed was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Steven Kopka.
As we say farewell to Edward A. "Ed" Kopka Jr., we celebrate a life well-lived, a heart well-loved, and a creativity that will continue to inspire. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit will remain with us, like the sunrises he so loved, signaling the start of a new day and the continuation of the journey he has now embarked upon. Ed's memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories told and the laughter shared, as we honor a man who was truly one of a kind.
The celebration of his life will be held Thursday July 24, 2025 at 4 pm at Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home-Pinconning. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 12 pm to 4 pm.
Fran wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you Northern Bay Ambulance, Covenant ER & CVICU for their compassion and care. Also, to Bay Area Women's Center for their support during this time. Those wishing an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Bay Area Women's Center in lieu of flowers.
