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Joseph Edward Kopinski, age 72, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 18, 2025 in Three Rivers. He was born on May 19, 1953 in South Bend, a son to Joseph and Gertrude (Witucki) Kopinski.
Joe spent his early years in South Bend before later moving to St. Joseph County, MI. On July 4, 1990, he married the love of his life, Ofelia “Fela” Perez, in Boulder, Colorado. Together they built a life centered on family, love, and shared memories.
Joe worked many years in manufacturing, including ten years at Abitibi-Price/ABTCO in Middlebury, and later at Summit Polymers in Vicksburg. He retired from Republic Roller in Three Rivers. After retiring, he was employed part-time at Kalamazoo Auto Auction.
He was a devoted sports fan, proudly cheering for the Chicago Bears and Notre Dame. Joe enjoyed bicycle riding, nature, birds, trees, his love of dogs, and spending time in the Upper Peninsula, in his younger years he even ran marathons. He had a deep appreciation for music and enjoyed playing guitar. He enjoyed listening to all kinds of music especially classic rock, and later developed a fondness for country music thanks to Fela.
Above all else, Joe loved his family—especially his children and grandchildren—and treasured time spent with them.
He is survived by his wife, Ofelia “Fela” Kopinski of Three Rivers; his children: Nicole Kopinski of Indianapolis, Rozalind Ruiz of Hawaii, Angela Modert of Bronson, MI, Clayton (Kathie) Lyczynski of Three Rivers, and Toni Lyczynski of Sturgis; fifteen grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his sister, Debra Bruck of Minnesota; brother Leonard, and many nieces and nephews.
Joe was proceeded in death by his parents, grandmother: Angela B Overlees: Brothers: Herb, Stan, and Tony Kopinski.
In accordance with Joe’s wishes, cremation has taken place.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 2nd, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, with a short service at 3:00, at the Three Rivers Church of the Nazarene, 1221 Coon Hollow Road, Three Rivers, MI 49093. Pastor Rich Saunders will be officiating the service.
Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093, has been entrusted with Joe’s care.
