Gabriel James Poptanycz, age 37, passed away at his home in Independence, Missouri on September 18, 2022. Born in Fairfax, Missouri on October 1, 1984 and raised in Westboro, Missouri, his hometown which he was always proud of. Gabe was a graduate of Tarkio High School, Tarkio, Missouri and Southeast Community College, Milford, Nebraska. He was a skilled tradesman and enjoyed working with his hands, becoming an expert in autobody, detailing, and welding. He lived in Scottsdale, Arizona for many years before returning to his home state in 2018 and residing in Kansas City, Missouri. On September 10, 2020, Gabe was united in marriage to Annie Lester of Tarkio.

Gabe had a huge heart, an infectious laugh, and hilarious dance moves. He could brighten anyone’s mood with his kind, welcoming nature and his willingness to help. He loved hip hop and Indie rock music, golfing, the New York Yankees, the St. Louis Rams (in true sports fan nature, even when they became the Los Angeles Rams), and was devoted to his friends and family.

Everyone who knew him said, “Gabe was the best.” He truly was and there is space in our hearts that will never be full again. He will always be loved immensely by his wife, his friends, and his family.

Gabe was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Jim and Margaret Chambers, his paternal grandparents, Gabriel and Maria Poptanycz. Survivors include wife, Annie Lester, Independence, Missouri; his parents, Russell Poptanycz, Shenandoah, Iowa and Betty Poptanycz, Atlanta, Georgia; his sisters, Ashely Poptanycz (Dumont Walker), Atlanta, and Kelly Poptanycz (Wade Rellergert), Atlanta, and his older brother, Nic Poptanycz, Prescott, Arizona; beautiful nieces, Sunny and Cleo Rellergert, and Ty Walker, nephew, Malclom Walker; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

*** Family requests sports jerseys/gear vs. formal attire because Gabe was a sports fan. ***

Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M, Friday, September 23, 2022, United Methodist Church, Westboro, Missouri.

Private Family Inurnment will be held at a later date, Center Grove Cemetery, Westboro.

Open visitation will begin Thursday, September 22, Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, where the family will receive friends from 6:00 – 7:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Gabriel Poptanycz Memorial Fund to help with final expenses.

Arrangements: Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio

www.minterfuneralchapels.com.