Billy J Popkey II

Billy J Popkey II obituary

Billy J Popkey II

Billy Popkey Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Thielen Funeral Home - MARINETTE on Sep. 29, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

William "Billy" J. Popkey II, 58, of Marinette passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at home, surrounded by family. He was born on December 19, 1966, to William and Rose Marie (Bernhardt) Popkey in Marinette and attended Holy Family Grade School. The family moved to California in his youth, and Billy graduated from Oakmont High School in Roseville and received his BS from California State University – Chico. He had worked for Popkey Distributing in Sacramento, drove semi cross country, and worked for ten years with Tyco locally. Billy loved to travel and astronomy, combining the two to travel the world to see total eclipses. He also enjoyed skiing, golf and rooting for the Packers.

Billy is survived by his mother, Rose Marie Popkey; brother, Chris Popkey both of Marinette; nephews, Hunter and Christopher; niece, Hailee; uncle, Bob Bernhardt; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, William; brother, Timothy; uncle, Richard (Marilyn) Bernhardt; and aunt, Diana Bernhardt.

Per his wishes, no services will be held. Thielen Funeral Home is assisting the family.

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

How to support Billy's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Billy Popkey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Billy Popkey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?