Dr. Edward M. Popp, M.D.

Edward M. Popp, 97, of Crystal River, FL passed away on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. Edward is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Geraldine; his three children: John (wife Diane) of Crystal River, FL, Theresa Misvel (husband Mike) of Irmo, SC, and James of Lewisville, TX; one grandchild: David Misvel of Las Vegas, NV; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his two sisters: Zita Rutherford and Ada Sloan.

Edward spent his early life growing up in small towns in Missouri. After graduating high school in 1942, he served 4 years in the Merchant Marines. His service included the North Atlantic, Mediterranean, and the Pacific war zones. When he left the Merchant Marines, he went to college with the desire to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a medical doctor. In 1948, he married Geraldine, and together, they worked to achieve his dream of becoming a doctor. After earning his medical degree from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine, Edward and Geraldine moved to Tampa, FL. There, he completed his internship and residency and opened a private practice in OB/GYN. During the 1960s and early 70s, Edward and about 20 other obstetricians in Tampa realized the need for a Women’s Hospital. He worked together with the other obstetricians to establish “The Women’s Hospital,” which is now part of St. Joseph’s Hospital.

After about 20 years in private practice and delivering countless babies, Edward was fortunate to retire early. He and Geraldine looked forward to the next phase of their life: retirement. They bought an RV and spent the next 25 years traveling. They enjoyed trips to Disney World, seeing the leaves change in the Smoky Mountains, visiting family and friends, and frequent visits to Pensacola to see their grandson, David.

In the 1990s, Edward spent time writing his memoirs, including his life growing up in Missouri and ending with retirement activities. He thoroughly enjoyed his writing journey and inspired his daughter to write her own stories. All of his stories are a treasured family legacy.

When their son, John, settled in Crystal River, Edward and Geraldine decided to sell their house in Tampa and move to Crystal River in 1997. Their new home looked out over Kings Bay and Crystal River. Edward especially enjoyed watching all the activity and wildlife on the river. After moving to Crystal River, Edward started volunteering at Citrus Memorial Hospital. He found his volunteer work very satisfying. Another one of his joys was dancing with his wife Geraldine, which they often did once a week.

Edward’s love for growing orchids started while living in Tampa. He continued this hobby after moving to Crystal River. He loved the challenge of growing them and had a knack for getting them to bloom.

Edward was devoted to his wife Geraldine, and he enjoyed the years they spent together. He was very proud of the accomplishments of his three children and grandson with whom he shared his joy of life. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Edward is also survived by a son, James Popp and a grandson, David Misvel.