Michael Eugene Stanislawski

1940 - 2025

Michael Eugene Stanislawski, affectionately known as "Poppy," passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, in Overland Park, KS, at the age of 84, following a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. His loving wife, Dora, family and friends were by his side.

Born on September 4, 1940, in St. Louis, MO, Michael graduated from high school in Rolla, MO, served honorably as a Navy Petty Officer, and worked for two decades as an aircraft mechanic before concluding his career as a rural postal carrier in Rolla. A member of the Assembly of God church, Michael lived a life grounded in faith and simple pleasures.

Michael found great joy in the outdoors. He and Dora loved fishing, canoeing, hiking, exploring caves, and camping activities that reflected their deep appreciation for nature's beauty. In later years, they embraced quieter moments: watching classic westerns, listening to Merle Haggard's country music classics, participating in Sunday worship and spending time with family.

One of the most fulfilling chapters of Michael's life began when together with Dora acquired 240 forested acres near Rolla realizing their dream of living surrounded by nature's sanctuary that nurtured them for four decades. As Parkinson's Disease progressed and health challenges mounted, they relocated to Rudy AR then Overland Park KS to be closer to their children and grandchildren during the final years of life.

Michael was preceded in death by parents Elizabeth Hooten and Maurice Stanislawski; Charles Hooton; sibling Rex Hooton; and children Maurice Stanislawski, Michael Stanislawski, Marcella LaRoe, and Thomas Woodham.

Michael is survived by wife Dora E. Stanislawski; children Lisa Marie Carr of St. Louis, MO; Patricia Beggs of Rolla, MO; Wayne Woodham and Byna Allen of Blue Mountain, AR; Donna Divine and Scott Hallstrom of Overland Park, KS; siblings James and Gloria Hooton of Belton, MO; John and Penny Hooton of Festus, MO; Jean Johnson of Clayton, MO; along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carry forward cherished memories.

A graveside service will be held on May 17, 2025 at Ozark Hills Memorial Gardens located at 12110 US HWY 63 South in Rolla, MO. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson's research charities in Poppy's honor.

Michael's sweet smile, humorous quick wit and light-hearted pranks brought joy to all.

"It broke our hearts to lose you,.

but you did not go alone,.

for part of us went with you.

the day God called you home."

Rest easy Poppy, you are deeply loved and will live in our hearts forever.