Stephen J Popovic Jr.

Stephen J Popovic, Jr., a man whose love for life was as grand as his love for his family, chose to head on up for that long-awaited beer with his dad and brother in Heaven on May 6, 2024. This marked the peaceful close of a chapter for a man who made the most of every page of his story.

Born on December 11, 1945, Stephen's story kicked off in Yonkers, NY. A graduate of Sacred Heart High School, and Monroe Business School, he grew to be someone whose values never wavered — solid, through and through. He wore the Navy blues with pride and later hung his hat at IBM in White Plains as a Senior Systems Specialist. But, if you asked him what set his world alight, it wasn't the accolades or the titles.

What Stephen held dear, what truly filled his cup, was diving into oceans of toys on the living room floor, totally engrossed in playtime with his grandkids. It was there, amidst the laughter and make-believe, that he found pure, unadulterated joy. He poured his heart into being "grampie," the one who made sure every single giggle was answered with a smile, and every dream explored with encouragement. He ensured his grandkids felt every ounce of his love and protection. That’s the legacy of a life beautifully lived, making the most of the little things and nurturing those small, everyday moments into something extraordinary.

Part guardian, part gentle giant, with a capacity to hoist us all on those broad shoulders and make us feel like the heroes of our own lives. He leaves behind a trail of cherished memories and stories shared by his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and anyone lucky enough to have known him. Stephen's love echoed through the halls of his home, where he was the heart as a husband, father, grampie, and great-grandfather.

Stephen's legacy is deeply rooted in love and resilience, a living tribute from his beloved wife, Kathleen, who journeyed with him from teenage sweethearts at Sacred Heart High School in Yonkers, NY to life's inevitable sunset. Their bond — over sixty years strong — was the kind of love that saw him carry her photo in his wallet, worn at the edges with time.

He leaves behind his heartbeat: Kathleen Popovic (Parmelee), his daughters Jeannine Rose (David), Lorraine Mirante, and his son Daniel Popovic (Karla), grandchildren: Nicholas Rose, Christopher Mirante, Teresa Mirante, Amanda Mirante, Grant Popovic, John Popovic, seven great-grandchildren, his sister Monica Boski, and his twin brother Michael Popovic. All who will carry on his legacy of strength and warmth. Stephen is preceded in rest by his daughter Marie Helen, his parents, Stephen J Popovic, Sr & Helen Popovic (Figura), and his brother Joseph S. Popovic.

We'll miss him dearly - his impact is indelible. We find comfort in knowing that he is raising a glass with loved ones, and sharing stories with the same candid wisdom, and sarcasm he was known for. So here’s to Stephen, the man who taught us to fight with vigor, love with passion, and live with purpose. Remembering and honoring a man whose life was nothing short of beautiful. Cheers!

A celebration of Stephen’s life will take place in Farmington, CT at a later date. To honor him, in place of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Sturgill Hospice Center in Brooksville, FL where he and his family were cared for in his final days. Donations will help HPH Hospice to make packets of books & activities for children while they are visiting the hospice house. Checks in memory of Stephen Popovic can be sent to HPH Hospice 12470 Telecom Drive, Temple Terrace, FL 33637 or make a gift online at https://www.chaptershealth.org/foundation/hph-hospice-donation/