Frank J. Popowich

Bergen – Frank Joseph Popowich, age 101, passed away on March 8, 2026 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia.

He was born on June 18, 1924 in Brockport, a son of the late Michael and Mary (Makohan) Popowich.

He was predeceased by his son, Ronald Popowich, and survived by Ronald’s daughter, Sherri Popowich.

He is survived by his daughter, Martha Kransler of Caledonia; her children, Kevin (Sarah) Kransler, Kathryn (Brian) Ribbeck, and Sarah (Patrick) Michael; and her grandchildren, Jack Kransler, Chase Kransler, Maleah Kransler, Emily Ribbeck, Andrew Ribbeck, Reid Michael, and Preston Michael.

He is further survived by his daughter, Debra Friedhaber of Chili; her daughter, Gretchen (Ashir) Badami; her grandchild, Ananda Badami.

He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Frank was predeceased by his loving wife, Marjorie (Mielke) Popowich; sons-in-law, Leon Kransler and Robert Friedhaber; and siblings, Anna (Popowich) Archetko, Nicholas Popowich, Olga (Popowich) Boychuk, Stella (Popowich) Luckhurst, and Sr. Katherine Popowich.

Frank’s parents immigrated from Ukraine, and he was raised on the family farm in Brockport. As a young man, he left high school early to join the military in support of the United States during World War II.

He served as a U.S. Navy Corpsman attached to the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and served in the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Following the war, Frank married the love of his life, Marjorie, and the two settled in Bergen where they raised three children: Ronald, Martha, and Debra. Frank lived in Bergen for more than 70 years and was a lifelong member and devoted supporter of St. Brigid’s Catholic Church. He was also a member of the American Legion and the VFW.

Frank was a dedicated and hardworking man. He spent over 30 years working for General Motors and also worked at Brockport Concrete Materials as a blaster. In retirement, he enjoyed gardening and grew many different vegetables, but he was especially known for his extensive gardens of gladiolas.

A proud patriot, Frank held deep respect for the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces and a profound reverence for the American flag, which to him symbolized the freedoms and sacrifices that define our nation.

The family would like to thank the staff of the NYS Veterans Home at Batavia for the care and kindness they showed Frank during his final year.

Friends may call on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 4 pm to 7 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 51 South Lake Avenue, Bergen. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 1 pm at St. Brigid Church, 18 Gibson Street, Bergen. He will be laid to rest with military honors in Creekside Cemetery, Churchville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to St. Brigid Church, 44 Lake Street, LeRoy, New York 14482, or the Bergen Fire Department, P.O. Box 428, Bergen, New York 14416.