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Jessica Dopka Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Jessica Dopka
Cheryl Lenz
January 17, 2024
This morning I heard "What a Wonderful World" and immediately thought of you, Jessica. The years may pass, but the memories do not fade. I carry you in my heart forever-from the cute little girl I was fortunate enough to watch grow into the beautiful young woman you became. May your family be enveloped with love, prayers, and strength-today, tomorrow, and always. Love and miss you.
Doris Lovern
January 15, 2021
Same sentiments I conveyed last year Six Heavenly years among the other angels We miss you dearly, Jess
Doris Lovern
January 15, 2020
While it has been five (5) lonely years since our beloved Jessica passed away, there isn't a day that goes by that she isn't in my thoughts and memory. I am comforted knowing that my husband, Paul was welcomed to heaven with Jessica's open arms in 2016. Jessica's presence is felt in every ray of sunshine, every star's twinkle, every drop of rain, and every flake of snow! Her beauty and love continues to brighten our days!
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you ALWAYS, Jess!
Cheryl Lenz
January 18, 2016
Jessica,
You are forever in my heart.
Love and miss you,
Cheryl
miss ribando
albany aguilar
April 13, 2015
i will allway miss you and love you love Albany aguilar student of mr.doka
Cheryl Lenz
March 8, 2015
Dear Jess,
Today would have been your 29th birthday. On this day, we remember you--your beauty, grace, and wisdom beyond your years. We thank you for epitomizing grace under adversity, for teaching us to live life to its fullest, for showing us to appreciate each and every day. We look to your parents, Cyndi and John, and your siblings, Sarah and Daniel, knowing how much they loved you, how much they mourn for you, but how strong they have been with the support of each other, other family, and friends who love them and loved you. I know your little students must miss you terribly, but you've taught them not only academics, but life lessons as well. Knowing you from just a little toddler, I was so proud of you, watching you over the years grow into the young woman, daughter, wife, and teacher you had become. You're missed today and always. You will always have a special place in my heart.
Love you, Jess.
Happy birthday, Honey! xoxo
Prem,Florence,Martina & Christopher Pillay
January 28, 2015
To Greg and the entire Dopka and Ribando family: We heard from a mutual friend of the sad passing of Jessica and were most grieved.We pray that Jessica's soul rests in peace with our Lord and may His spirit reside with you all forever!
Gus & Mary Jane Bender
January 28, 2015
Please accept our deepest sympathies on your loss. Greg, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
January 26, 2015
Deepest condolences. The Dopka family will be in our hearts and prayers.
January 26, 2015
John and Cyndi- My deepest sympathy to you and your family with the loss of your beautiful daughter.
Donna Glass (Ribando)
Kelsey Tupper
January 26, 2015
I am sorry beyond words to hear of your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Jess only a few times, but I always admired her incredible strength. I heard great stories of her for years before I met her, and I know she was an amazing woman with a wonderful sense of humor.
Anyone who heard the Dopkas talk about Jess could see the meaning of truly unconditional love- she was clearly adored by her friends and family, and she adored them as well. I know she loved being little Lana's godmother and aunt, and I'm sure she will continue to watch over her. Sending all my love and thoughts (and cuddles to Penny and Lana) your way. Take care.
January 25, 2015
God took her in his loving arms. He saw she needed rest. Jessica will stay in my precious memories... Peace Prayers and Blessings!
Jane and Laddie Drahokoupil
January 25, 2015
John and Cyndi,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I never had the pleasure of meeting Jessica, but I know the strength and love that the two of you share must have exuded in her. A testament to her love was the line that wrapped around the funeral home farther than the eye could see. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days ahead. Find comfort in your happy memories and strength in the faith that we we all meet up once again with the ones we love.
K. Serna
January 24, 2015
To the Ribandos & Dopkas,
Both Cyndi and the Dopkas were so kind to me growing up, and although I only knew Jessi incidentally, I am heartbroken to hear of her passing. Sending you all love and strength and big, big hugs.
Peggy Passaro
January 24, 2015
John, Cyndi, Sara, Daniel and Greg,
Words just cannot convey how sorry I am for your loss. May all of your memories of Jessica carry you through and the love of family and friends bring you comfort. I was unable to attend Jessica's services but know you were on my mind and remain in my heart.
Ashley Jefferies
January 24, 2015
To Greg, John, Cyndi, Sarah and Daniel,
I wish more than anything I could have made it home to give you all the biggest hugs. Jessi has always had a special place in my heart since the day I met her. As well as all of you for welcoming me into your home and lives for so many years. I know she will continue to be in all of our hearts through the amazing love she left for everyone she knew. I'm so grateful to have known her and been able to call her my friend, a best friend. My heart pours out to you in this difficult time. Hugs and love to you all.
Me ke aloha,
Ashley
January 23, 2015
We can't imagine the depth of your loss. Our deepest sympathy to you all. May your memories give you strength through this difficult time .
Rick, joni, andrew and jeff wuestenfeld
Eric Pierce
January 23, 2015
My Fiance worked with Jessica at UNO, and although I did not know her well, I was constantly impressed in the support she showed for her school and her friends. She was a regular at every UNO fundraising or cultural event, and always brought a warmth and enthusiasm that everyone around her fed off of.
My favorite memory of Jess was at the annual UNO 5k charity race, when she showed up near the crack of dawn to cheer on her fellow teachers and show her support with a grin on her face, despite being in the middle of cemo treatment, but that was the Jess I knew. She was someone who was there when people needed her.
Despite the limited time I spend with her, I can say this: Jessica had a measurable impact on everyone that had the privilege of knowing her; be it her students or her fellow teachers. She is greatly missed, but both the impact she had on people and Jessica herself will never be forgotten, that's just not possible. Thank you to everyone who helped shape the person that Jess was, and to Jessica herself for the way that she has touched the lives of those around her.
January 23, 2015
Friends of Jessica's notified me of your terrible loss and I may have met her many years ago. She was a friend of our beloved daughter Meagan who we too tragically lost in 2005. I wanted to send our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to her husband, parents and family. She was too young to leave, like our daughter too. I understand the pain you must have and know how difficult the days and years ahead can be. Hold onto all of the memories, pictures and stories and keep her in your hearts always. In time and with many prayers, the deep sadness will start to subside and He will give you strength to carry on. I hope that our Meagan will find her and their friendship will go on again in Heaven.
The Shea Family, Schaumburg, IL
Karen Thomas
January 23, 2015
To Jess's Family, her Beloved husband, Greg, her parents and the many who have been touched by her sweet spirit, especially the students and staff members at UNO Marquez, I met Jess while visiting my daughter Mary, another teacher at the school and was immediately touched by her courage. What a blessing she has been to all who have known her. May the stories and pictures you share with each other give you comfort and peace in your hearts. May God's love enfold you through the days and weeks ahead. You are in my prayers. Karen Thomas
Boye Ogunseitan
January 23, 2015
To Greg, Cynthia, John, and the entire Dopka and Ribando families: I am truly sorry for your loss. Jessica was an incredibly strong, noble and kind woman who bore great pain with grace and dignity. You were the rock that gave her the support to live on her own terms. May her grace remain ever present with you.
SIncerely
Nick Rogers
January 23, 2015
I am so sorry to hear about Jessica. I first had the pleasure of meeting her while attending EIU. She was a great friend, and a truly wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this difficult time. Her life may have been short, but she will live on forever in the hearts and minds of those of us who were lucky enough to know her.
Greg & Nicole (Villano) McRoskey
January 23, 2015
Dear Greg, Dopka Family, and Ribando Family,
I am very sorry to hear about Jessica's passing. May the love of family and friends comfort you during these difficult days. Sending our most heartfelt condolences.
January 22, 2015
John, Cyndi, Sara & Daniel, our hearts break over your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your families.
Peggie Ryan,Kaitlin & Connor Chiero
Kathy Martinez
January 22, 2015
We are so sorry for your loss. Jessica is a wonderful person who was loved by all.
Kathy & Art Martinez
Cristy Rizzoli
January 22, 2015
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Jess. She was a wonderful person whose smile was contagious. I have very fond memories of our volleyball days –we always had such a fun time. May your memories bring you comfort at this difficult time. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Kourtney Willert
January 22, 2015
I wanted to add more than words and leave a memory! Greg- you and I have grown up together playing soccer and being refs and being good friends all through elementary school. You were as great of a kid then as I know you are of a man now. You and Jess were perfect in that she made me feel so welcome and accepted when going through those judgement days of middle school. You guys really were meant for one another with such great hearts! I will keep you and the family in my thoughts always!
Maureen, Sean & Danielle Engelbreit
January 22, 2015
Dianne and Greg, I am so sorry to hear about Jessica. Sean, Danielle and I are sending love and prayers to you and your family.
Kristin Pollastrini
January 22, 2015
I'll never forget Jessica. She was the best babysitter I could of ever asked for. I know you are watching over me. Rest in peace Jess, I love you.
Kourtney Willert
January 22, 2015
Sorry I couldn't make it. I wish you nothing but to remember the happy memories of her and what a great person she was to everyone she came in contact with. Her life was too short but her love will continue to be in everyone's hearts she touched.
Deb Burmeister
January 22, 2015
Such great love surrounded Jessica, a beautiful woman. We send our deep condolences, love and prayers to your families.
January 22, 2015
Dear Dopka and Ribando Families, although I didn't know your beautiful Jessica, I remember John teaching my daughter at CCD at St. Julian's Church when she was just a child herself. I am saddened to hear of the loss of your beautiful angel. My prayers are with all of you. Remember your angel is now watching over all of you.
The Sullivan Family
Pat Schmidt
January 22, 2015
John and Cyndi, my deepest sympathy on the loss of your beautiful daughter. My daughter, Sara, remembers playing Volleyball with Jessica at Conant. Remember all the good times with Jessica to help you get through this very difficult time. She was an amazing woman. God bless you all and give you the strength to carry on one day at a time.
Nancy McGowan
January 22, 2015
Dear Greg & Ribando Family,
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your darling Jessica. May Jessica's beauty fill your hearts, her smile sparkle in your eyes and her courage be the pillar of strength that carries with you always and forever!
Our love and prayers are with you always, from our hearts to all of yours. Peace & Hugs ~ Michael, Nancy, Bob, Kelly & Karly McGowan
Wanda Block
January 22, 2015
With Sympathy at the loss of your daughter, I had the opportunity to meet Jessica at the Baseball Game. It was nice meeting your daughter. She was a wonderful young women and I know she will be missed.
Wanda Block
Coach Steven Peter
January 22, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. I remember Jessica best when she was on Conant's volleyball court with a great big smile and the love of the game in her heart.
-Peace
Liz Norris
January 22, 2015
I will forever cherish the memories and laughs we shared. I am a better person because we were friends. May you rest in peace for all of eternity.
Sarah Enzenberger
January 22, 2015
May you rest in peace and happiness, one day we will meet again and embrace with hugs and memories of EIU. Love forever and always Sarah Enzenberger & Jojo
Julie
January 22, 2015
I was so lucky to have known Jess and have her in my life, if even for a short time. Not only was she an amazing person both inside and out, but she went out of her way to help everyone. Jess was a great roommate to me and my dog Jojo. She took care of her like she was her own dog. We will both miss her so terribly. I am so very sorry for your loss. Praying and thinking of your entire family during this incredibly sad time.
January 22, 2015
John and Cindi...I am so sorry.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Heaven certainly gained an angel.
Love, Julie, Jessica & Nicholas Wayne
Cassie Becker
January 22, 2015
Jessica was an amazing woman who I was so lucky to get to know at classes at EIU. She will be missed but remembered forever. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Katie Darby~Quick
January 22, 2015
I didn't personally know Jessica but did know her husband, we attended high school together and graduated in 04, I send my deepest condolences to her husband, family and friends, may a beautiful angel rest in peace , sending love and prayers
January 22, 2015
I only knew Jessica from Network events but every time I spoke with her she always had a smile on her face. I may have not known her as long as some of you but she definitely impacted my life in a positive way. I am so sorry for your loss and your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Barb Guenther
January 22, 2015
John, Cyndi and family....I am so very sorry for your loss....My thoughts and prayers are with you so much right now....You raised the most amazing young woman...and I feel so fortunate that she spent so much time with my kids those two summers...what an awesome role model she was....You are amazing parents...and my heart breaks for you! Love, Barb
Daniel Azukas
January 22, 2015
Our sincere condolences.
January 21, 2015
We are so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful Jessica. We pray that God gives you the strength to bear the unbearable.
Dan, Nancy and Tommy Harth
Cathy Schandelmeier-Bartels and family
January 21, 2015
God bless you all during this difficult time! My heart bleeds for you - may happy memories sustain you as God again proves he only wants the best at his table. The world Is a better place because Jessica was here! Big hugs -
Rosi Rosas
January 21, 2015
Dear John, Cindy and Family: May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief. Your family is in our prayers and please know that we are here for whatever you need.
Love,
Rosi
Lou Altobelli
January 21, 2015
John, Cindy and Family....our hearts are broken over your loss. Please take solace in knowing Jessica is at peace and looking down upon all of you. You have 28 years of fond memoires...allow those memories to be your strength.
All our Love- The Altobelli's
Philip Gonski and Jessica Tarica
January 21, 2015
Dear Greg and Greg & Jessica's families,
We are truly sorry for your immense loss. We only met Jessica a few times, but she was the kind of person who left such an incredibly positive and lasting impression -- she was so full of joy and excitement that you couldn't help but want to be part of it! Jessica was such a beautiful and giving person and we are fortunate to have known her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very sad time.
January 21, 2015
Dear John, Cindy and family. Our very deepest sympathies in Jessica leaving this earth. Our prayers go out to you and your families,
Rich and Diana Scramuzzo
Mary Beth & Tom Ryan Family
January 21, 2015
Jessica was a fighter and battled with such grace. Our hearts are broken and prayers are with you all.
Ann Grygo
January 21, 2015
Dear Greg and families; I and my whole family are so very sorry for your great loss. God give you the strength to get through this. Know that Jess has touched so many lives with her kindness and her love for all . Embrace the memories. You now have a special angel to watch over you.
January 21, 2015
Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Our hearts are broken for you on the loss of your beautiful, Jessica.
Much love and prayers, Earl & Noreen Cheng
January 21, 2015
Our heartfelt sympathies to your entire family. Our hearts break over your loss. Your whole family is in our prayers.
Ed and Penny Kadlec
Aunt Doris and Uncle Paul Lovern
January 21, 2015
Dearest Gregory. ..
Words cannot convey the sorrow and sadness we feel at this most difficult time. But we pray that God can give you strength and peace knowing just how special Jessica was and how uniquely she touched so many lives in her short time here on Earth. We'll forever treasure the infinite memories that sweet Jessica implanted in our lives and very special place she'll forever occupy in our hearts.
With love and angel blessings always...
January 21, 2015
Dear John Cyndi Ribando and Dopka Families
We are so sorry about the pain you are going through at this difficult time. We are praying to god to give you the strength to get through the days ahead.
Dave Jeannette and Debra Cromie
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