Michael J. Kopko (1936 - 2025)

Beloved son, brother, life long partner, and community man.

Michael J. Kopko, born in 1936 in Detroit, Michigan, passed away Sunday, September, 7th 2025 at the age of 89. A man of integrity, humility, and dedication, Mike lived a full life rooted in family, service, and community.

The son of hardworking Czechoslovakian immigrants, Mike grew up on Winfield Street in Detroit during the Great Depression. Even from a young age, he showed remarkable independence and determination delivering newspapers at age 12 and finding odd jobs to support his family. His early work ethic stayed with him throughout his life.

He was one of four children, the second-born among his siblings: Mary, Joe, and an older sister Ann born in 1935. Together, they shared memories of simple joys, family strength, and post-war resilience.

Mike served proudly in the U.S. Army Reserve, where his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) was in the Military Police.

Mike traveled widely, including memorable trips to England, Sweden, Holland, and even Russia. He proudly served as a "Junior Ambassador of Goodwill" and personally delivered a gift to the mayor of Holland, Michigan and met England's United Kingdom princess Margaret. He remained curious and open-minded throughout his life, engaging in history, culture, and world events with clarity.

He is remembered by those who knew him as thoughtful, compassionate, and endlessly generous with his time and talents. He lived by his values, and in doing so, touched many lives. He is survived by his long time health professional Odelphi Estrada, Esther Oberlin, Carol Malfroid, Ruth Dunning, Paul Adams, Shirley Vouris, John Adams, Curt Kopko, Geoff Kopko, Randy Kopko, Laura Jecks and lifelong friend Mary, Irish Collaen. They traveled extensively to many countries together and visited many islands. He came to Chicago in the 60s working in the newspaper business and went from there into the food industry until he retired.

In reflecting on his life, Mike once said:

"What I've learned is that war and suffering have existed from biblical times, and still do. Innocent people are too often caught in the middle. The strength of humanity is in how we care for each other. That's what matters."

Michael J. Kopko's legacy lives on in the memories of those he helped, the stories he told, and the example he set.

Visitation, Monday, September 15, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., Funeral Service, Tuesday, September 16, 10:00 a.m., Lawrence Funeral Home, 4800 N. Austin Ave. Chicago, IL 60630. Interment to follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL.

For information, 773-736-2300.