John Opalko

John Opalko, age 100, of Milford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on April 7, 1925, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, John was the cherished son of Andrew and Anna Opalko. His life was a testament to dedication, family, resilience, and joy.
As a young man, John answered the call to serve his country when he was drafted into the United States Army during World War II. Following his honorable service, he moved to Detroit, Michigan, in search of opportunity and a new beginning. It was there, at a dance hall filled with music and laughter, that he met Florence-the love of his life. Their whirlwind romance soon led to a joyful marriage, and together they built a loving home, raising two beloved children, Michael and Karen.
John and Florence's shared passion for dance remained a constant throughout their lives. Whether it was square dancing, round dancing, or lively polkas, their grace and joy on the dance floor were a reflection of their enduring love. Music held a special place in John's heart-he was a gifted and self-taught musician, mastering the accordion, organ, and harmonica. In tender moments, he would call Florence during times apart and serenade her with their song, My Happiness, on the accordion-a melody that became a symbol of their devotion.
A hardworking and humble man, John briefly worked for the Ford Motor Company, where he had the rare privilege of meeting Henry Ford himself. He later dedicated 35 years of his career to Mechanical Manufacturing, where he became known for his diligence, precision, and mentorship. Even after retirement, his strong work ethic drew him back to employment on a local shop in Milford, where he continued to guide and inspire younger coworkers until the age of 84.
Above all, John was a family man. A devoted father, proud grandfather, and adoring great-grandfather, he took immense pride in supporting and guiding his family. He helped many of his grandchildren land their first job with a Spinal Column paper route and lovingly passed down his passion for music. Treasured memories were made at "Papa's Woods" in St. Helen-where the family enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting trips, creating traditions that will be cherished for generations.
John was known for his honesty, compassion, and unwavering commitment to family. He was a man of wisdom and humor, with a memory his loved ones fondly described as a "steel trap." He was deeply proud to reach the milestone of 100 years, and celebrated this achievement with joy and gratitude.
Since 1968, John called Milford home, and it was there that he rooted his family in love, integrity, and tradition.
John Opalko leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and music. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.
Beloved father of Michael Opalko; proud grandfather of Nathan (Crystal) Opalko, Sarah (Kyle) Sumner, Jacob (Cara) Opalko, and Kyle (Hayley) Eppler; cherished great-grandfather of Jay, Jack, Bram, Samson, and Wilson; and dear son-in-law of Jim Eppler. John is also survived by many loving family and friends.
John is preceded in passing by his beloved wife Florence Opalko, loved daughter Karen Eppler, dear daughter-in-law Joyce Opalko, and treasured siblings Anna, Stanley, Joseph (Butchie), Louis (Mugsie), Bernie, Francie and Theresa.
Visitation to take place on Friday, May 30 from 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM with a rosary at 6:00 PM. Funeral mass to take place on Saturday, May 31 at St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows in Milford at 11:00 AM. Gathering time at 10:00 AM. Procession following mass to Milford Memorial Cemetery where committal prayers and military honors will take place.
Memorial donations in John's memory are encouraged to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a charity near and dear to John's heart.
https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_dcm=58700008005633810&sc_cid=kwp&sc_cat=b&frequency_selected=1&&&&&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1285465&ds_rl=1290690&ds_rl=1291300&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17681678597&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhKvpp7C8jQMVIUL_AR3NyAv5EAAYASAAEgKn6fD_BwE