Memorial

Thomas A. Popa, 87, passed away May 30,2026, after a prolonged illness. A visitation will be held from 9 to 11 am, Saturday, June 6, at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel Stateroom. A graveside service will follow at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Tom is survived by his children, Tracy (Dave) Corell, Beth Byrwa, Teresa (Bill) Fettkether, and Jon (Laurie) Robertson; ten grandchildren: Jake Corell, Scott (Claire) Corell, Grant Byrwa, Jared Byrwa, Owen Byrwa, Darci (Ken) Hagen, Marie Fettkether, Kevin Robertson, Tim (Lauren) Robertson, and Henry (Amanda) Robertson; four great grandchildren: Mya Corell, Clayton Corell, Kenner Hagen and Alex Hagen; siblings, Rosemary (Nick) Icossipentarhos, Warren (Mary) Popa, Kathryn (Jeff Amann) Popa, and Mary Jean (Jim) Siegel. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Myrna Popa; sister, Ruth (Larry) Rowe and his parents, Ed and Naomi Popa.

Tom was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he developed a lifelong passion for automobiles, racing, and the nuanced details in form and function. He raced Formula Ford with NorthAmerican MotorSport, competed for land speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats, and took it easy against the grandkids on the gokart track. In 1979, he co-founded OPN Architects (Olsen, Popa, Novak) establishing a successful career in architecture and community development. Tom also served as Chairman of the Cedar Rapids City Planning Commission from 1981 to 1987.

Tom spent retirement meticulously designing and crafting each detail of his and Myrna’s retirement home on Lake Koshkonong in Wisconsin. The lake became a special gathering place where he and Myrna created many cherished memories with family and friends.

Tom enjoyed fine cooking and often fell asleep on the couch after a good meal. He and Myrna also shared a love of art, collecting from local artisans, and enjoyed traveling throughout the United States to visit friends and family.

Above all, Tom loved his family. He especially treasured time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose visits brought him tremendous joy.

Known for his storytelling, quick wit, warm smile, and wonderful sense of humor, Tom enjoyed making others laugh and found joy in everyday moments.

He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.