Gary Alan Popp

Gary was born January 24, 1956, in Belleville, IL to Robert T. and Betty J. (Hopfinger) Popp. He was preceded in death by his father in February 2026.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Mary (Tylka) Popp, of Millstadt, IL. They were married on October 8, 1976 in Belleville, IL. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of marriage.

Also surviving is his mother, Betty Popp of Belleville, IL; his three daughters, Jennifer (Darren) Vines of Norris City, IL, Melissa (Jeremie) Veto of Waterloo, IL, and Kelly (Craig) Archer of Millstadt, IL; beloved grandchildren, Carlie Davis, Sydnee Davis, Chase Veto, Nolan Veto, Blaine Archer and Bryson Archer; and his one sister, Nancy (Jerry) Davee of Belleville, IL; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gary spent 43 years as a devoted employee, working as the Superintendent of Operations with Dignity Memorial. His devotion to his job, the people he mentored throughout the years, his hard work and dedication will never be forgotten.

Gary served his community in many capacities over the years, including his memberships with Elks Lodge #664, coronated a 33 Degree in 2000, Provost Guard, Ma Cli Bo, Directors Staff, Monroe County Shrine Club, Collinsville Shrine Club and Royal Order of the Jesters Court #86. He held positions as Past Master of St. Clair Lodge #24 in 1985, Most Wise Master of John M. Pearson Chapter of Rose Croix from 1995-1996, Commander in Chief Mississippi Valley Consistory from 2005-2007, and Potentate of Ainad Shriners in 2020.

When Gary was not working or spending his time serving others, he loved fishing, hunting, and both fixing and riding four wheelers. He always enjoyed being outdoors and the simpler things that life had to offer.

Above all else, Gary loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He always found an opportunity to teach and guide his grandchildren. His legacy will live on in the many capacities in which he served others and lived his life. He will truly be missed and never forgotten.

A visitation for Gary will be held on Friday, April 3. 2026 from 4:00 P.M.- 8:00 P.M. at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.

Honorary Guard provided by Ainad Provost from 3:45 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. with a 5:30 P.M. walk thru with TAPS being played.

Walk thrus to begin as follows, starting at 6:43 P.M.:

ROJ - Rose Ceremony, Provost Guard, Past Potentate, Current Divan, Director's Staff, Scottish Rite 33rd, and Masonic Ceremony

A funeral will be held Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at the funeral home, with a time of visitation an hour prior to the funeral, from 9:00 A.M.- 10:00 A.M. Final interment will be at Valhalla Gardens of Memory Mausoleum.

Memorial donations may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children or to Family Hospice.