Joanne F. Popa

Died May 4, 2024

CEDAR - Joanne Fay Popa, 91, of Cedar, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at home with her loving family by her side. Joanne was born on June 28, 1932, in Traverse City to Frank and Helen (Korb) Garvin.

In her younger years, Joanne cherished spending time with her family and friends, attending dances, get-togethers, and playing cards. She was a very nurturing person, babysitting for many families and assisting with farm chores. Joanne graduated from Traverse City High School in 1951, and shortly after, married Anthony P. “Gabby” Popa, on July 21, 1951, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Traverse City.

Joanne moved to the Popa farm with Tony, where they were blessed with 7 children, 18 grandchildren, and 23 greatgrandchildren. She worked on the farm alongside her husband and children, growing the famous Popa’s strawberries, sweet corn and raising livestock. The most rewarding job she had was motherhood, and she did it with great love. She was affectionately known as “Grandma” and “Great Grandma” as she spoiled her grandchildren and great grandchildren with affection and homemade treats.

Joanne loved hosting family gatherings at “Popa’s Pond,” where laughter filled the air as children and adults alike enjoyed fishing, swimming, bonfires, catching frogs and turtles, as well as each other’s company.

A devout Catholic, Joanne was actively involved in her church community. She attended Immaculate Conception Catholic Church until moving to Cedar in 1951, where she became a dedicated member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Joanne served as a Eucharistic Minister, actively participated in many church activities, and faithfully prayed the rosary while always offering prayers for her family and friends. Joanne had a green thumb and took pride in her flower gardens and her vast yard. She was an exceptional cook and baker, and her grandchildren fondly remember her homemade treats, especially the nobake cookies and paczkis. Her kitchen was open to all who would come to visit – she always wanted to make sure that everyone was well fed and left with a full belly.

Joanne is survived by her brother, Richard (Dick) Garvin; her children Terrance Popa, Jeffrey ( Jean) Popa, Douglas Popa, Debra (Michael) Bunek, Kevin (Melissa) Popa, and Cindy (Dean) Williams; 18 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 43 years, Anthony “Gabby” Popa, and her son, Gregory Popa.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 15, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with the Rosary to be prayed at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Cedar.

The funeral mass will be held on Thursday, May 16, at 11:00 a.m., with the family greeting friends at 10:00 a.m., also at Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

Memorial donations in Joanne’s honor may be made to Mass Intentions and Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 6982 S. Schomberg Rd., Cedar, MI 49621.

Burial will follow the service in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Please share condolences and memories with the family at www.martinson.info.

Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.