Edward Thomas Kopacz

Edward T. Kopacz of Palos Heights, age 88 passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 8th, 2023. Edward was born on September 6, 1934 to his parents, George and Mary Kopacz in Chicago IL. He served honorably in the United States Army till 1963.

After serving in the United States Army, Ed “Big Ed” went on to play professional baseball in the minor leagues for the Dodgers, Braves, and Giants. While on a Delta flight between games, Ed met his wife Dorothy, a flight attendant. They were married in October 1958 and would go on to have 3 children.

Ed was a beloved husband to Dorothy Kopacz (Donlevy), loving father of Jeffrey Kopacz, the late Colleen (David) Herhold, and Timothy (Linda) Kopacz; devoted grandfather of Heather (Merl) Ledvina. He had four loving great grandchildren: Ashlyn, Adeline, Nathaniel, and the newest addition Lindsey. Dear brother of George Kopacz, Raymond Kopacz, and Daniel (Sandy) Kopacz.

Ed never lost his desire to play golf, teaching not only his family but many students. Ed also worked at Waters Edge Golf Club for numerous years as a starter where he was quick to give you a tip or two. Ed always found time to hit the links himself, his favorite past time.

Ed, you were loved by so many and will be missed greatly, and in your own famous words, “ I’ll see you when I see you Babe ”

Visitation held at Chapel Hill Gardens South 11333 S. Central Ave, Oak Lawn IL. 60453, on Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral Wednesday 8:30 AM, from Chapel Hill Gardens South to St. Alexander Catholic Church, 7025 West 126th Street, Palos Heights, IL 60463 for 10:00 AM Mass. Burial to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 West Hoff Road, Elwood, Illinois 60421.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org or to the American Cancer Society at www.donate.cancer.org would be appreciated.