Donna Lee Sopko

Donna Lee Sopko, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, peacefully passed away on January 10, 2024, in Battle Creek, Michigan. She was born on January 27, 1936, in Greenwood, New York to her loving parents, Donald and Virginia (Lee) Brundage. Donna was known for her unwavering dedication and love for her family and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Donna attended Bradford High School and graduated with the class of 1953. On February 5, 1955, Donna was united in marriage to the love of her life, George J. Sopko. Their bond grew stronger over the years as they navigated life's joys and challenges together. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to love and commitment. Donna and her husband George lived in Germany while he served in the United States Airforce.  In the 1960s they moved to Battle Creek from Ohio, where they established their home and created a lifetime of cherished memories together.

Throughout her life, Donna held various meaningful roles. She owned a children’s clothing store called the Prince and Princess Shop and worked as a bookkeeper at Lakeview Hardware for an impressive 20 years. Additionally, Donna enjoyed working as a lunch hour supervisor at Westlake School, where she impacted the lives of countless children with her kindness and warm-hearted nature.

A devout member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Donna found solace in her faith throughout her life's journey. Her strong belief in God provided guidance and comfort during both joyous and difficult times. She served at St. Joseph as a eucharistic minister and a reader and was very involved in Superfest.

Donna had a wide range of interests and hobbies that brought immense joy into her life. She had a passion for painting, allowing her creative spirit to flourish on canvas as she expressed herself through art. Playing bingo brought laughter and excitement into Donna's life as she enjoyed friendly competition with friends and loved ones. However, nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her family—especially her grandchildren—who were the light of her life.

Donna will forever be remembered as a woman of immense love, strength, and resilience. Her legacy lives on through her surviving family, including her adoring husband, George Sopko. Donna also leaves behind her children: Terry (Jim) Baldwin, Don (Cristina) Sopko, Debbie (Clayton) DeGayner, Linda (Stephen) Sopko, and Jill (Frank) Shump. She was a proud grandmother to 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, sister Sandra Miller and brother Jim Brundage. 

A private Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Battle Creek, Michigan, and will be followed by interment at Fort Custer National Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org