Bernard Sopinski

Sopinski, Bernard, of Minocqua, WI formerly of South Milwaukee, WI, quietly passed away on October 9, 2015 after a long illness. Bernie was married to Sylvia Mecikalski (predeceased by 10 years) for 51 years. He is survived by his children, Amy (Darrell) Bushnell of Granada, Nicaragua; Kay (Steve) Peterson of Altoona, WI; Joyce Sopinski Troy of Boulder, CO; and David A. Sopinski of Oak Creek, WI. Also survived by sister Mary Jane Krawczyk of South Milwaukee and her son, George; grandchildren, Sarah Troy, Zachary Troy, and Paul Troy of Colorado; Matthew Peterson of Colorado; and Stephanie Peterson Anderson of Altoona, WI with husband Matthew Anderson. Bernie was in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict. He was a police officer with the So. Milwaukee Police Department for 25 years, retiring in 1987. Shortly thereafter he and Sylvia moved to Minocqua, WI. In his younger days, he was one of the best fast pitch softball players in the county. A true sportsman, he played golf, bowled, fished, and hunted. Always a dabbler in art, upon retirement he began painting in earnest. He discovered a love of wildlife and showed that in wood carving birds and animals. Bernie was an active member of 2 art leagues in the North Woods. He also showed and competed in art exhibitions throughout the state. Never one to be idle, Bernie was in 2 horseshoe leagues in Minocqua, a member of Snaps Gym, an ice fisherman, and a lover of life. He leaves many a dear friend in So. Milwaukee and Minocqua. Bernie was a rare man, quiet, steadfast, funny, compassionate, hardworking, and fair. He will be sorely missed. Memorial service at Pat's Oak Manor in South Milwaukee on Friday, October 16 from 12:00PM-3:00PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Friends of Mill Pond (www.smfomp.org) or Horizon Home Care Hospice (horizonhch.org).