Photo courtesy of Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Jul 22, 1984 – Jan 24, 2024
Joel E. Popp
Frankenmuth, MI; Formerly of Bridgeport, MI
Loving, caring, husband, father, son, brother, grandson, uncle, and nephew passed away unexpectedly in the line of duty on Wednesday, January 24, 2024; age 39 years. Joel was born on July 22, 1984 to Joseph and Kay Popp; they survive him. He was married to Stefanie Licht on August 2, 2008; she survives him.
Joel honorably served as a Michigan State Police Trooper. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and golfing. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved being a dad.
Surviving besides his wife Stefanie are: daughter Emalyn Popp; parents Joe and Kay Popp of Bridgeport; brothers Josh (Jennifer) Popp of Birch Run; James (Erica Gale) Popp of Birch Run; mother-in-law and father-in-law Rose and Bob Licht of Bridgeport; brother-in-law Rob (Chris) Licht of Bridgeport; grandparents Joann Popp of Bridgeport and Barbara Gosselin of Bridgeport; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins; “kids” Emberly, Oaklynn, Zander, and Roman; MSP Partner Tpr. Jones; and dog companion Gunner.
Joel was preceded in death by grandparents James Popp and Helen and Eugene Bryce.
Funeral Service will take place on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at SVSU Ryder Center, 7400 Bay Rd. University Center, MI. A private committal service will follow. Joel’s family will receive visitors at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. on Monday, January 29, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m., Fr. John Mancini will officiate. Visitation will also take place at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday at the Ryder Center from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to MSP Trooper Assistance Fund C/O Popp Family. https://www.michigan.gov/msp/tpr-joel-popp.
Read MoreThis is so very very sad. I am so sorry for your loss, and for the great loss to the community and the country.
Chris Grant
February 13, 2024 | ANN ARBOR, MI
My heartfelt and deepest condolences. Anything you and your daughter need, call on me. We retired troopers will always be there for our brothers and sisters families. God bless you always.
Mark Miller 734 292 5254
February 01, 2024 | Grosse Ile, MI
Trooper Popp, thank you for your dedicated service and sacrifice.
Stephen Levijoki
January 31, 2024 | Swartz Creek, MI | Acquaintance
Sincere Condolences to the Popp Family! In our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time!
Amy & Isiah Sageman
January 31, 2024 | Pigeon, MI
Prayers to Trp. Joel Popp and to the Popp family on the loss of one of MSP’s finest.
Howard Covert (#86028-LCSO) Ret.
January 31, 2024 | Fort Myers, FL | Friend
Sending our sincere condolences to the entire Popp family. We didn’t know Trooper Popp, but hearing about this unimaginable loss of life pulls at your heart. May the angels welcome Joel to paradise and martyrs greet him on his way. May he rest in peace !
Kathy & John Smith
January 31, 2024 | Midland, MI
My Deepest Sympathy to you all, You are in my thoughts and prayers
Jacque Robinson
January 31, 2024 | Birch Run, MI | Friend
Trooper Popp, thank you for your service and your sacrifice. To the family and friends of Trooper Popp, please accept my deepest sympathy.
Kelly B
January 31, 2024 | STERLING HEIGHTS, MI
To Kay and family. My heart hurts after hearing this devastating news. Sending my love, hugs and prayers to all. God speed and Rest in Peace Joel.
Heidi Butzin
January 31, 2024 | Fort Valley, GA | Friend