Michael Eugene "Poppy" Stanislawski

Michael Eugene Stanislawski, affectionately known as Poppy, passed away peacefully on April 14,2025, at the age of 84 in Overland Park, KS, after a prolonged and courageous battle with Parkinson Disease. His loving wife Dora was by his side, and he was surrounded by loved ones. Born on September4, 1940, in St. Louis, MO, Michael lived a life full of simple pleasures, love, and dedication. His sweet smile, humorous quick wit and light-hearted pranks brought joy to others, brightening their day if only for a moment.
Poppy found joy in fishing, canoeing, hiking, exploring caves, and camping for as long as his body was able. He cherished memories of RVing in Florida with Dora, and treasured the moments spent with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In his later years he found contentment watching old westerns, and listening to country music, especially anything by Merle Haggard. Michael graduated Rolla High School, was a member of the Assembly of God Church, and served in the US Navy as Athletic Petty Officer. His work career began in 1960 as an Aircraft Mechanic for McDonnell-Douglas Aerospace, retiring after 20 years. He transitioned to a rural US Postal Carrier in Rolla, Mowhere they had purchased 260 acres of woodlands fulfilling a dream to live surrounded by nature. After30 years, health ravaged by PD, they relocated to be near their children spending his final 5 years in Overland Park, Ks.
Preceded in death by parents, Elizabeth Alice Hooten and Maurice E. Stanislawski, stepfather CharlesHooton, stepbrother Rex & wife Cathy Hooton, sons Maurice and Michael Allen Stanislawski,stepdaughter Marcella LaRoe, and stepson Luther Thomas Woodham.
He is survived by wife Dora E. Stanislawski of Overland Park, KS, daughter Lisa Marie Carr of St. Louis, MO; stepdaughters Donna Divine & Scott Hallstrom of Overland Park, KS, and Patricia Beggs of Rolla, MO; stepson Lindil Wayne Woodham Byna Allen of Blue Mountain, AR; brothers James & Gloria Hooton of Belton, MO, John & Penny Hooton of Festus, MO; and sister Jean Johnson of Clayton, MO. His legacy is further carried on by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will continue to honor his memory.
Graveside services to celebrate Michael's life will be held on May 17, 2025, at Ozark Hills Memorial Gardens, 12110 US HWY 63 South, Rolla, MO 65401. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am, followed by a Memorial Service at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Parkinson's research charities in Michael's honor, continuing his legacy of hope for a better tomorrow.
"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.