Robert James Popke

Robert J. "Robbie" Popke, 71, of Sandusky, passed away peacefully early Tuesday evening, October 3, 2023, surrounded by his family in the Stein Hospice Care Center, Sandusky.

   He was born on June 27, 1952, in Sandusky, OH the son of Clarence Frederick and Alberta Betty (Jarrett) Popke.  Robbie was a 1970 graduate of Perkins High School.  He was a veteran having served honorably in the Ohio Army National Guard from 1971 - 1977. 

   On January 4, 1971, Robbie started working at the Routh Packing Company and was there for nearly 40 years, retiring in July 2005.  He had also owned and operated the Sandusky Athletic Club for nearly 20 years (since Oct. 2003) and had been a fishing Charter Captain, piloting his boat "Seeker" for 25 years .  Over the years, he loved spending time with his daughter and his grandsons and had also enjoyed socializing with others, going out fishing and hunting.

   He was a life member of the A.M.V.E.T.S. Post # 17 and the Sandusky Orioles Club Nest # 279.

   Robbie is survived by his daughter, Stephanie (Zachary) Popke-Miller of Castalia; his three grandsons, Dylan, Dawson and Kolton; a sister, Julie A. Betschman of Sandusky; his nieces and nephews; his significant other, Doddie Neumeyer of Sandusky; and close family friends, Bill and Judy Palmer.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, William A. Popke.

   It was his wish to be cremated.  The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 from 4-7 pm at the David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky. A private family graveside service will be held in Sand Hill Cemetery, Sandusky.  A "Celebration of Robbie's Life" will be held for him at the Sandusky Athletic Club, 902 W. Adams Street, on Saturday, October 14, 2023 starting at 1:00 pm. 

  The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to Stein Hospice Service, Inc., 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870; to Cancer Services of Erie County, 505 E. Perkins Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870 or to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959

   Your memories and words of comfort may be shared with Robbie's family at davidfkoch.com.

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