Richard Stopa

Richard K. Stopa fell asleep in death on Friday, December 25, 2009 in the Eastern Niagara Hospital in Newfane at the age of 75. He was born August 22, 1934 in Lewiston, the son of the late Michael and Helen (Mietlicki) Stopa. Richard worked for General Motors Harrison Radiator in Lockport and retired in 1999 after 45 years of service. He spent much of his time farming and loved the outdoors. He enjoyed spending time in the Southern Tier at his hunting cabin and visiting area friends. He spent the last few years supplying firewood for local campers. He is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Dorothy (King) Stopa; his daughters, Janis (Glenn) Gaviller of Newfane, Marcia (Ronnie) Brown of Albion, Tonia (Elvis) Cobb of Lockport, and Teryn (Richard) Gorhan of Ransomville; his sons, Richard K. (Virginia) Stopa, Jr. of Jamesville, WI, Steven (Carol) Stopa of Lockport, Timothy (Darlene) Stopa of Everett, WA, and David Stopa of Niagara Falls. He was especially proud of his 22 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren who always made him smile. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael (Audrey) Stopa of Akron, NY and Donald (Mary) Stopa of Newfane; his very special sister, Marilyn (James) Skorik of Wilson; his uncles, Victor (Lorraine) Stopa and Richard Mietlicki both of Lewiston, Henry (Janet) Frank (Barbara) Mietlicki both of Lockport; several nieces, nephews, numerous cousins, and aunts, Irene, Natalie, Betty, and Dorothy. Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville on Tuesday from 4 - 9 pm and Wednesday from 11am - 2 pm. Funeral Services will begin Wednesday, December 30, at 2:00 PM in the funeral home, with Walter Slade officiating. Burial will follow in the North Ridge Cemetery, Church Rd. Town of Cambria. In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice.