David Jerome Popko, 71, of Palmyra, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 23, 2021, at the M.S. Hershey Medical Center after a short battle with cancer. He was born Wednesday, November 16, 1949, in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Bernard R. and Florence R. (Cyprych) Popko. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 50 years, Jane Theresa (Biedrzycki) Popko also from Pittsburgh, PA.
David graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1971 with a BS in Medical Technology. He worked at the Lancaster Osteopathic Hospital, Lancaster, PA for 1 year after graduation. He then worked for M.S. Hershey Medical Center from 1973 till retiring in 2012. He worked in the Clinical Laboratory as a Generalist until promoted as the Computer Supervisor for the laboratory. He received an MBA, from Penn State University in 1993. He was then promoted to Manager, Supply and Distribution for the Medical Center until his retirement.
David was very active in his Church as an Extraordinary Minister for Communion church services and brought Communion to Catholic home-bound residents. He was an active member of the Legion of Mary and the Knights of Columbus. He also delivered the parish’s monthly food donations to the Caring Cupboard in Palmyra. He was also actively involved with organizations supporting the rights of the unborn.
In retirement, he enjoyed traveling and gardening, in addition to his work at the Church of the Holy Spirit.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: Alexander Kamilus Popko, and Ania Kristina Terry and husband David; three grandchildren; two siblings; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, Raymond Popko.
A memorial mass will be held on Friday, August 27, 2021, at 3:00 p.m. with a family visitation from 2:00 p.m. until the start of the service at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 300 W. Pine St., Palmyra, PA 17078 with Father Anthony Dill officiating. A private burial will take place at Gravel Hill Cemetery, Palmyra, at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his memory to American Needs Fatima, P.O. Box 341, Hanover, PA 17331 or The Caring Cupboard, 131 North Railroad St., Palmyra, PA 17078.
