Marian J. Popelka, age 93 of Shawano, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at The Cottages in Shawano. She was born in Shawano on November 28, 1932, the daughter of the late Emil and Margaret (Ainsworth) Popelka. Marian attended a one room Dallman School before attending and graduating from Shawano High School. Her senior year quote was, “She’s none the less important because she isn’t very tall. I think you’ll find a stick of dynamite is also very small.” Following high school, Marian attended and graduated from Mount Sinai Nursing School in
Milwaukee. Marian began her nursing career in Shawano before moving to Minneapolis in 1959 where she worked as a neuro surgical nurse at the University Hospital. In her free time, Marian enjoyed day trips with friends going shopping and to the casino. She volunteered her time at a local church and bookstore in Minneapolis and enjoyed random trips to Wisconsin to visit family. Marian will be remembered for her love of Oldsmobile cars. She once owned an Oldsmobile, now considered a classic, which her nephew, Ron Popelka, drives. Marian was well known in her community and was adored by her neighbors. When Marian retired from the University Hospital, she moved back to Shawano to be with her family. She spent the last few years of her life at the Cottages Assisted Living facility in Shawano where she was well cared for.
Survivors include her brother, Lewie Popelka of Shawano; her nephews, Ronald (Cheryl) Popelka, David Popelka, Sr., and Michael Popelka; her niece, Beth (Julian Perez) Popelka, and several other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Dean Popelka, and her sister-in-law, Carol Popelka.
A funeral service for Marian will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 am at Mickelson Funeral Service in Shawano. Pastor Daniel Kim will officiate Visitation will be at the funeral home from 10:00 am until 11:00 am on Saturday. Private burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery in Shawano.
Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.
“The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Cottages who played an important role in Marian’s care.”
Comments