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Julie Popovich Obituary

POPOVICH Julie Anne Popovich, age 20, of Pickerington. She was an employee of Max & Erma's Restaurant in Reynoldsburg, worked as a model for the Wilhemina Modeling Agency in New York City (with travel to Europe, New York City, and Taiwan), student at The Ohio State University, member of the St. Stevan of Dechani Serbian Orthodox Church, and a 2003 graduate of Pickerington Central High School. Julie is survived by her parents, Peggy (Tim) White of Baltimore, OH and Victor (Donna) Popovich of Reynoldsburg; her sister, Christie Popovich; step-sisters and brothers, Cortney White, Marc White, Carole (Jayson) Harper, Tim Schneider; grandparents, George Popovich of Columbus, Willard and Alean Tope of Hilliard; aunts, Dena Honeycutt of NC, Lisa Popovich of Hilliard; uncles, James (Debbie) Tope of MO, Terry (Darlene) Tope of Grove City, Rev. Mark (Sue) Tope of NC; special uncle, Roger (Marlie) Thomas of IN; and special cousin, Brooke Honeycutt of NC. She was preceded in death by her grandmother Barbara Lathey Popovich. Friends may visit 1-4 and 6-9 p.m. Thursday, at the DWAYNE R. SPENCE FUNERAL HOME, 550 Hill Road North (State Route #256), Pickerington. Two funeral services will be held, the first service will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. Stevan of Dechani Serbian Orthodox Church, 1840 N. Cassady Avenue, Columbus, with Rev. Isak Kisin and The Very Rev. Mateja Matejic officiating. The second service will be held 2 p.m. Friday at the Peace United Methodist Church, 235 Diley Road, Pickerington, with Pastor Mark Tope (Julie's Uncle) officiating. Interment in Mifflin Township Cemetery, Gahanna, Ohio. Pomen service will be held 8:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Friends may contribute to Operation Smile International, St. Stevan of Dechani Serbian Orthodox Church or to any Katrina Disaster Relief Fund in Julie's memory. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.spencefuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Sep. 7 to Sep. 8, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Julie Popovich

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Deborah A Daugherty and Jessica Needham

September 1, 2024

Well Julie, we are checking in with you and praying that God is keeping you busy up there in heaven, we pray for your family and though we did not know you, we pray that one day you will be reunited with your family again. God Bless Sweet Julie, fly high with the Angels honey, you are special, Debby and Jessica

Debby Daugherty & Jessica Needham

September 1, 2022

Julie touched our heart. Being my own daughters age, I want you to know, though we did not know her or you, we still think of her, God Bless each and everyone of you and the Angel herself. We pray for you still. Debby & Jess

stephen williams

September 10, 2021

Julie
Another year passes but you are never forgotten. RIP xx

Steve Williams

September 14, 2020

Have just watched Julies story on tv in the middle of the north sea.
What a beautiful vibrant young woman. What a waste of a precious life. She will live on in many peoples hearts and memories forever.. never forget her x

October 25, 2019

It was so long ago but feels like last week. I still think about this tragedy and my heart weeps for the family. I was friends with Julie and saw her very often when she came over to my cousins place. I was there at the church service and at the graveside prayers. I will never forget Julie and will always pray for the family to receive comfort through time by the grace of the holy spirit.

Debby Daugherty

September 1, 2019

Just letting you know that we still think of Julie, my daughter Jessica was Julies age and as we continue thru life, think of her often. A mothers love is forever, and Mom we are there with you as the time passes. We believe Julie is a beautiful Angel in God's great kingdom, just letting you know that we care. God Bless Hugs, love and prayers to you......

Debby & Jessica Daugherty

June 18, 2019

We did not know Julie. But she was my daughters age. I kept up with prayers for her an family. I want you to know she has affected many people An our deepest condolences to all of you at such a heartbreaking loss. God be with each an everyone of you. Debby

June 15, 2019

Prayers for the White/Popovich family very very sad may GOD CONTINUE to be with you all

Kendra Householder

October 28, 2005

Not a day goes by when I do not think about Julie and the light that she brought to a room when she entered it. Working in a restaurant is usually pretty stressful, but Julie made each day enjoyable at work and always had a smile on her face. To Julie's family, I want you to know that you are in my prayers everyday and I just want to thank you for bringing such a great person into this world. She made each day brighter and that will never be forgotten.

kristen

September 14, 2005

My thoughts and prayers will always be with you. Julie will truely be missed. She was a bright young girl with an amazing dream. She helped a lot of us reach for our dreams.

Linda Sutterfield

September 14, 2005

Julie, I am so sorry for your loss.

I am praying that you and your family will be comforted and find

peace in the midst of your grief.



Linda (Davis) Sutterfield

Janet Flowers

September 12, 2005

I am a long-time friend and former co-worker of Lisa. Lisa, I know how much you loved Julie. Gary and I were saddened by what happened and cannot imagine what you and your family have gone through. I pray for God to ease your pain. Please know that Julie is in a better place and you will see her sweet smile again someday. We love you!

Jim Kovaleski and Marcella Drummond

September 11, 2005

Dear Victor and Family, We cannot pretend to know what you're going through, but know you are in our thoughts and our prayers as you have been since the day Julie went missing. Your family has had a tragic loss, but heaven has gained a very special and very loved young woman. May God Bless you and keep you safe.

MELODY SHAMBURGER

September 11, 2005

I DID NOT KNOW JULIE,BUT I FEEL YOUR PAIN.I LOST MY SON LAST YEAR,AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT SHE IS WITH GOD NOW AND SHE IS O.K.I WILL KEEP YOUR FAMILY IN MY PRAYER'S.JUST THINK OF THE GOOD TIME'S THAT YOU SHARED WITH HER.

David Cross

September 10, 2005

Dear Tope Family

I am sorry to hear about your Loss, I never knew Julie, but I am sure My mother did, my Familys thoughts and prayers are with you. Dave Cross and Family

Dr. Roger and Marli Thomas

September 10, 2005

We had the pleasure of visiting with the family recently and even commented on Julie's picture on the wall and what a beautiful young woman she was. Our hearts are deeply saddened by her death. All of our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family at this time.



"A memory is a keepsake of time that lives forever in the heart"

Lisa Coultas (Popovich)

September 10, 2005

Julie is and always will be such a beautiful young lady. Throughout the years I had the joy of seeing her at our family reunions, the one thing I remember most is the way she smiled~not just with her mouth but with her eyes. What a sparkle she had! Her shining spirit cannot be taken away. It is devastating to lose her here on earth, but she is in a better place now...smiling down on us all.



God Bless all of our Popovich & extended families & friends in this sad time. You are all in my prayers. There are no words to express the deep sadness that is felt by everyone who knew her. I know she will be missed. *God Bless you Julie, rest in peace*

Debby Daugherty & Family

September 9, 2005

There are no words to express our deepest sympathy to you on the loss of your beautiful child., we did not know Julie nor your family personally, we followed the story and we prayed and we cried for her and for you, may God be with you during this terrible time in your life, please know that there are many people that care for you and your family. Julie is with the angels now, you will see her again and she will remain as beautiful as ever. God Bless your family. God Bless Julie......We will always remember you in our prayers.

April Burns

September 9, 2005

I did not know Julie, but my prayers go out to the entire family and to everyone who knew and loved her. God Bless.

Carly Garatoni

September 8, 2005

Bright blessings to you in your time of grief.

Stephanie

September 8, 2005

I just wanted to say that my thoughts and prayers are with your family. I did not know Julie, but have been drawn to the story. She was such a beautiful young woman. Just remember, you will be reunited with her one day.

Ed,Karen, Rebekah, Amy, Emily, Abby and Grace Dannemiller

September 8, 2005

Dear Popovich Family,

We were neighbors in Reynoldsburg and Rebekah and Amy used to play with Julie and Chris. We wanted to express our deepest sympathy to your family. Ed and I and the girls have been praying for you.

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, And saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalms 34:18

May God comfort you and hold you in His arms.

Sincerely,

Ginny Hulet

September 8, 2005

Dear Victor and Family,

You have been in our thoughts and prayers.

Ginny Hulet and the entire Hulet family

lila

September 8, 2005

the thing i remember most about julie is her bubbley personality. she was always happy. no matter how bad your day was going she could always make you smile. i will miss that very much, she always put me in a better mood.

Tina French

September 8, 2005

Our family can only imagine what your hearts are feeling. Julie was a friend of our daughter, Angela. Although they had lost touch after high school, I had the pleasure of sitting with Julie and catching up on her life, while watching her sister perform in her high school Christmas play. Julie was always a very cheery girl and will be missed by everyone who knew her. Our prayers go out to all of Julie's family, as well as everyone who had the good fortune to know her.

Cathy Yoli

September 8, 2005

Dear Vic, Donna and George:



Seeing all of you over the last weeks has shown me that with faith, love and friendship we can all get through the worst of times. Yet, no other words come to me in writing this to you but "I'M SORRY". My thoughts are with you everyday, Your Friend, Cathy Yoli

Vanessa Bevan

September 8, 2005

Deepest Sympathy ....



Vanessa, Pete and Nick

Lin Smirniotopoulos

September 8, 2005

Peggy

I last saw Julie at your parents 50th anniversary. I was drawn to her beautiful smile and vibrant spirit. I will cherish that memory and pray for your family's strength and peace through this very painful time. Your cousin Linda (Greene) Smirniotopoulos.

A. Carter

September 8, 2005

I do not know any of you but heard about your story and just wanted to send my condolences to your family in this time of need. It is important to remember that she is in a better place and even though you can't see her, she will always be there. My heart goes out to you all. Your family is in my prayers.

April

September 8, 2005

To the family and friends of Julie, my thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need. Julie was a special person who's smile lit up the world! I feel special to have known Julie and know that her spirit will never die! God bless you!

David and Anne Nixon

September 8, 2005

Please know that the people of St. John Chrysostom Byzantine Catholic Church are united with you in prayer. May you be comforted and consoled through the prayers of the Mother of God.



Vjecnaja pamjat. . .

Mike & Brenda Carsey

September 8, 2005

Vic, George and family....

Brenda and I can't imagine what you've gone through and now, the words escape us. We pray that you can draw strength and peace from your faith, family, and friends during this most difficult time. Our deepest and heart-felt condolences for you and your family.

Lynn Groves

September 8, 2005

Although I did not know Julie personally, it's been many years since I've seen her. I was a friend of her aunt Lisa. We worked together for a long time and were friends for as long too. We have lost touch over the years, but when I heard of this news I just had to write and say just how truly saddened I am about Julie. She's only 1 year older than my own daughter and I couldn't imagine life without her! I'm sure that Julie touched many lives while on earth and is dancing around with her grandmother right now. She's in a much better place than we are - I know that doesn't always help, but she's at peace and that's what matters. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family - I know GOD will be with you!

Marty Greene-Nabakowski

September 8, 2005

My Dear Little Peggy...It used to be that I could never look at cherry pie without smiling...Now it jut makes me sad. I have felt so deeply for you throughout this whole ordeal. Our love and deepest sympathy will be with you and your family always.

Love,

Your Cousin Marty and Husband, Ed

Garth

September 7, 2005

Peggy - you and your family are in my prayers. I am sure Julie's presence on Earth touched a number of lives in so many ways. And it's those lives that will provide the love and support needed for courage to face the days ahead together as a family. May God bless and keep you and yours.

STACEY MULVEHILL

September 7, 2005

TO THE FAMILY OF JULIE POPOVICH,

I DID NOT KNOW YOUR DAUGHTER PERSONALLY ,BUT THROUGH A FRIEND OF MINE AND A KIN TO YOU,( SHELLY AMBOS RHINESMITH )SHE HAD BEEN KEEPING ME UP-DATED ON JULIE'S DISAPPEARANCE-AND SADLY TO SAY-MY HEART ACHES FOR ALL OF YOU-PLEASE KNOW THAT MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH EACH OF YOU DAILY.

STACEY MULVEHILL( PELL CITY AL, )

Karen Bauer

September 7, 2005

Peg And Family, What can I say except that Iam so so sorry. Love Karen Bauer (Old 3TN Burn unit)

Kelly Thurston

September 7, 2005

I am a friend of Julie's cousin Teresa. My thoughts and prayers go out to Teresa, the family, and Julie. I believe Julie is now in a safe place and will always be remembered. God bless you Julie.

Becky Tyler Bechtel

September 7, 2005

Peggy



My thoughts and prayers are with you. I want to get together with you when I am next in Columbus if it's convenient for you. I am so sorry for what you are having to go through. She was a beautiful girl who most definitely carried her mother's smile. May you carry her smile with you in your heart always.



Love

Becky Tyler (Bechtel)

Class of '75

West High School

Jonathan (Vich) Sprowls

September 7, 2005

To the Fmaily of Julie Anne Popovich,

I never got to meet Julie, but I did meet her grandparents at my Uncle's wedding. George and Barbara talked about her the whole night while we were their. To this day, I still have the picture that George and Barbara gave me. My hearts and prayers go out to the Popovich family through this rough time. The Cleveland State Baseball team also send their Condolences.

Pete Thomas

September 7, 2005

It saddens me greatly to hear of the loss of Julie. Although I barely knew her in life, I worked briefly with her grandfather George at Columbus Fire. My thoughts and prayers are with you throughout this horrendous time and hope you only remember the joyous times that Julie brought to your life. I will pray for your family, Julie is now in the hands of our Lord. May she rest in peace.

Kirby Sherrill

September 7, 2005

Julie was a dear friend to me. I have many good memories of us together and all the fun times we shared. Julie was a wonderful girl and an even better friend. I will always have a special place in my heart for Julie. Wherever she is, I know it is truly a wonderful place. Rest in peace Julie, I love you.

JERRY FINK

September 7, 2005

A FRIEND OF GEORGES.OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

Christie Tomak

September 7, 2005

Although I did not know Julie I am the mother of 4 children.I cannot imagine the pain this family is feeling.Just know that so many thoughts and prayers are with the family from many people you dont even know we were all touched by your loss.God bless and be with all of you.

Jackie and Lisa Gibson

September 7, 2005

Please know that ya'll are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sarah Laughery

September 7, 2005

Julie and I were friends at school. Although we did not stay in contact after graduation, she will live on through our memories. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Paula Esapovich

September 7, 2005

Dear Popovich Family, you do not know me but over the last 2 years or so, I've come to know Julie's grandfather George and also Proto Mateja Matejic. The news of Julie's disappearance has deeply saddened the parishioners of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Midland. I've prayed daily and lit candles for everyone in your family and will continue to do so. May she rest in peace.

Vjecnaja pamjat.

Janis Dean

September 7, 2005

I am a friend of Julie's Aunt Lisa. My heart and prayers go out to Lisa and the rest of Julie's family. I hope and pray that the Lord will lighten the hurt, pain and sadness the family is feeling right now. The Lord is taking care of Julie. Lisa, sweetie -- if there is anything at all I can do to help you through this, I will be here. I love you !

Bob Cosner

September 7, 2005

To the family of Julie Popovich

Bob & I are so sorry for your loss. May God be with you all, thru this terrible time.We know that Julie is with her maker and as beautiful as ever.God Bless. Bob & Debbie Cosner friends of George & Barb Popovich

Leslie Cole

September 7, 2005

I am a friend of Teresa's from when she lived in Tennessee. I have been talking to her as much as possible through all of this. I wanted you all to know that even though I didn't know Julie she is someone I will never forget. I cannot say how sorry I am for your families loss...I know there are not any words that I can say to help the situation or make it hurt any less. All I can say is my heart and soul and thoughts go out to all of Julie's Family.

Michele

September 7, 2005

My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends. Julie was a wonderful, sweet girl with a smile we'll never forget.

Pastor Chris Bocklage

September 7, 2005

Words cannot express, nor can people imagine, the grief you must bear at this time. I will pray that God will somehow lighten this burden through His love and mercy which is in Jesus Christ.



Sincerely,

Marysville Missionary Baptist Church

Christine & Jackie Craft

September 7, 2005

I want to express to the family how very sorry I am for your loss. Vic, George & Lisa, even though we've never met, I feel that I know each of you through Dena, who is my dearest friend. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you and remember, God has taken Julie and given her wings.

Debbie Zimpfer

September 7, 2005

I did not know Julie but my heart goes out to her family and friends. I work with her cousin Teresa. It hurts me to see the pain in her eyes. I wish the family strength and love at this time of grieving.

chad bryant

September 7, 2005

her smile could light up a room when she walks in, she had a whole lifetime to enjoy lifes simplest pleasures,she will be greatly missed to us at max and ermas in reynoldsburg,know she is an angel in waiting and god looking down over her family and this time of sorrow, may she rest in peace

Shelly Rinesmith

September 7, 2005

Peggy, Tim and Christie,



My Family and I pray each day for your hearts to heal. It has been a difficult time for you, we are truly sorry for your loss.

There is peace where Julie rests now.

With Love and Sympathy

Your 2nd/3rd Cousin Shelly (Marty Greene's daughter)

Ellen Chapman

September 7, 2005

To the Family of Julie,my thoughts & prayers go out to each & everyone associated with Julie's life.

With Deepest Sympathy,

Ellen Chapman (Nancy Vukovich's friend from Krieger Ford)

Teresa Tope

September 7, 2005

With all my love and a thousand prayers for our family.

Evelyn Goins

September 7, 2005

God bless you and give you peace during this most difficult time.



Sincerely,

Evelyn Goins

Cynthia Steinke-Anderson

September 7, 2005

From:Hilltop Library 511 S. Hague Ave. We are old, dear freinds of Alean and Wilard Tope. So very, very sorry for your loss. You are all in our hearts and prayers.

Amy

September 7, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Julie. Although I had lost contact with her since highschool, the news of her disappearance and death saddened me to no end. She was a wonderful friend and person - who always wore a contagious smile on her face. May God erase all of her pain now and welcome her into a home of eternal love. She will be missed greatly by many people.

Martha (Ashton) and Jerry Brown

September 7, 2005

Our prayers are with you during this time of suffering.

Evie (Snyder) Hess

September 7, 2005

Our deepest condolences for you and your family. Words can never fill your void but know that you have people out here that will talk.

Karen Rose (Hardy)

September 7, 2005

Peggy,

We haven't seen each other since we worked together as staff nurses in Children's ER back in the late 1980's. I prayed from the minute I heard the news of a missing beautiful, young, vibrant woman bearing a familiar name that this was not your daughter. I can't begin to express the depth of my sympathy. May God be with you and your family in this time of pain and sorrow. I know that there are no words that can be said to console your pain. My prayers are with you. My heart breaks for you.

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