Ray Dale Popa, 87, passed away Thursday, October 3, 2024 in Lawton, Oklahoma with his daughters by his side along with his son in law and granddaughter.

Services will be held at a later date in Akron, Ohio.

Ray Popa, 87, was born on December 17, 1936, in Akron, Ohio, to George E. and Julia A. (Brendle) Popa. The youngest of twelve, Ray grew up surrounded by family and began learning the construction trade early on, carrying tools for his father and brothers at Popa Construction. Ray's passion for carpentry continued throughout his life; he was a skilled craftsman who took pride in building, especially the cradles he lovingly crafted for his grandchildren.

Leaving school to join the Army, Ray married his high school sweetheart, Janice E. (Ainscough) Popa, during his service. He was honorably discharged as a staff sergeant and soon joined Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Akron, where he worked his way up from a tire builder to a supervisor. A highlight of his career was being recognized as one of the top ten supervisors in the nation, earning him a trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he spent a week with company executives. He took great pride in this accomplishment.

In 1978, Ray was chosen to help train staff for the newly opened Goodyear plant in Lawton, Oklahoma, where he continued his career until his retirement. He later moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he enjoyed life in the desert, close to his daughter, Vicki, her husband, John, and their son. During his years in Tucson, Ray married Pacita Serafino, who preceded him in death.

In 2022, Ray returned to Lawton to be near his other daughter, Lorri, and her husband, Rodney. He cherished his final years on their farm, finding joy in watching the animals each day. Ray's legacy of love, craftsmanship, and family devotion will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents and 11 siblings along with all their spouses and his in-laws from his first wife.

He is survived by his ex-wife, Janice A. Popa, whom he remained close to, his two daughters, Vicki (John) Relich of Tucson, Arizona and Lorri (Rodney) Jackson of Lawton, Oklahoma. He is survived by his grandchildren, Jenifer (Owen) Siah, Crystal (Mike) Nicholas, Michael Relich, Megan (Joseph) Roloff, Leigh (Mike) Marteney, Beth Jackson, Nathan (Molly) Jackson, Jenna (Michael) Jackson and 21 greatgrandchildren and his sister-in-law, Virginia Ainscough. More than anything, he enjoyed sports. He watched every sport on television and could tell you stats or history of any baseball, football, basketball or golf players, current or years past. He will be dearly missed by friends and family.

Sent from my iPhone