Francis X. Stopyra

Francis X. Stopyra, of Auburn died Tuesday, April 7, 2015 atThe Meadows in Rochedale. He was 76 years old and surrounded at the end by his adored family. His wife of 36 years, Ann Marie (Huban) Stopyra passed away September 7, 2004. He leaves his beloved daughter, Sharon and her husband Michael Brackett of Auburn, two sons, Kevin Stopyra of Auburn and John Stopyra of Millbury; his sister, Margaret "Peggy" Rossik of Auburn, five grandchildren, Ryan and Abigail Brackett, Joshua and Leo Stopyra and Chelsea Marie Stopyra ; two nieces Paula Rossik and Patricia Pignataro a nephew Joey Rossik and a cousin Barbara Ann Gould. Francis also leaves his very close extended family. He is predeceased by his granddaughter, Kallie Brackett. Francis was born in Worcester, the son of Walter C. and Margaret (Horton)Stopyra. He was a graduate of Worcester Boys Trade and has lived in Auburn for over 32 years. Francis served our country proudly in the United States Army. Mr. Stopyra worked for Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) as a carpenter and locksmith for forty years, retiring in 2004. During Francis's younger years he played the bugle for the former PNA Drum Corps; he was a former Vice President for Lou Gehrig Little League and was the Jr Vice President at the American Legion Quinsigamond Post 318 and a member of The White Eagle Association. Francis' funeral will be held Saturday, April 9th from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 370 Plantation St., Worcester with a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. in the Church of St. John, 40 Temple St. Calling hours will be held Friday, April 10th from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the funeral home. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Auburn. In lieu of flowers the family suggest that all donations be made to the Kyle Gavin Foundation; http://www.gofundme.com/dloy88.To leave a message of condolence or share a special memory of Francis, please visit his memorial site.