John Anthony Popiel was born on April 29, 1931 to Anna and Anthony Popiel in Wallkill. John entered into eternal rest on February 6, 2019 at the age of 87 in the loving presence of his family.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Clare, married for 65 years, as well as his daughters, Denise Jackson, Joann Laprise, Jacquelyn Vero and husband Nicholas, as well as grandchildren Michele and John Jackson, Lindsey O’Brien and husband Joseph, Julia Laprise, Garrett and Natalie Vero. He is also survived by cousin Eddie Lyczkowski and nieces Kathleen Stevens, Diane Budd and husband Ed, and nephew Michael Stevens and wife Beth. John was predeceased by his sisters Helen Volock, Josephine Popiel, Stella Stevens and niece Patti Billowitz.
John was a retired dairy farmer and corrections officer at Wallkill Correctional Facility. He grew up with the passion of farm life running deep through his veins, which contributed to his strong work ethic and dedication. Alongside his parents and his three sisters, he rose early to milk cows and worked hard tending to the fields. Earlier in his life, John proudly showed off his Belgium Horses pulling his antique covered wagon in the General Montgomery Day Parade with his longtime friend John Wild. John also enjoyed raccoon hunting with his prize winning dog Jenny. He was a member of the Wallkill Rod and Gun Club.
A family statement: “John will be most remembered as a kind, generous and gentle father who cared deeply for his family. We will always remember his talent for infusing witty and humorous comments. We will miss him dearly.”
A mass of Christian burial was held on Monday February 11 at St. Benedicts Chapel, 70 Wallkill Ave, Wallkill. Burial was at St Mary’s Cemetery in Montgomery.
Arrangements were made by Wallkill Funeral Home.