Roman "Ray" M. Popielski Jr.

Roman “Ray” M. Popielski, Jr., 83, passed away on Friday, April 14, 2023 in his home, surrounded by loved ones, following an extended illness. 

Ray was born on May 13, 1939 in South Bend, to the late Roman M. Popielski, Sr. and Martha D. (Radzwill) Popielski.  He was a lifelong resident to the area.  He retired as an electrician from AM General in Mishawaka.  Ray was active in playing golf and liked to go bowling. He was a member of Bowlers Country Club.  He also enjoyed spending time outdoors bird watching, gardening in the yard, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. 

Ray proudly served in the U. S. Air Force for 8 years.  He also served as a Civil Air patrol for one year and in the U. S. Marine Corp Reserves for a year and 9 months.  He was a member of the VFW Post 9820. He was a former Commander of Post and served as a member of the Honor Guard.  He was also a member of the Indiana Council of Clubs.

Ray is survived by two daughters, Tina M. (Mike) Jenkins of South Bend, and Peggy S. Jankowski of South Bend and by three sons, Mark Alan (Retha) Popielski of Lewis, IN, Aaron M. (Tammy) Popielski of Mishawaka, and Michael E. Popielski of South Bend.  He was also the proud grandpa to 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by one sister, Dolores “Dolly” (Ray) Stout of South Bend, and by a brother John (Marie) Popielski of South Bend.  Ray is preceded in death by his parents, a son, Ronald P. Popielski, and a great-grandchild, Aubry Maronek. 

Ray’s wishes were to be cremated.  The family is having a celebration of Ray’s life from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at the V.F.W. Post 9820, 4829 W. Linden Ave., South Bend, with an Honor Guard Salute at 1:30 p.m.  Memorial contributions in honor of Ray can be made to the Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

The HANLEY and Sons Funeral Home “Southwest Chapel” and Cremation Service is handling arrangements and extends our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to the Popielski’s family and friends.  To leave an online condolence or to share a memory, please visit http://www.hanleyandsonsfuneralhomes.com

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