Michael Anthony Konopka

Michael (Mike) Anthony Konopka of Alexandria, Virgina, formerly of Erie, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, October 24 at Harper’s Station Senior Living in Gainesville, Virginia. He recently celebrated his 80th birthday.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Adam and Anna (Betty) Konopka and his beloved wife of 42 years, Jean Grolemund Konopka.

Mike was a retired Lt. Colonel of the United States Army, specializing in Field Artillery Operations, Force Development, and Nuclear and Chemical Target Analysis. Mike served overseas in Vietnam, Germany, Japan, and South Korea, as well as many US stations, completing his career at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. He was a proud life-long student, having graduated from Cathedral Prep in 1962. He received his Bachelor of Science from Gannon University in 1972, Master of Science from the University of Southern California in 1985, and his Doctor of Arts in Community College Education from George Mason University in 1999.

Following retirement from the US Army in 1992, Mike continued to serve as a Professor of Leadership and Management, and the Acting Director of the Residential Program for the US Army Management Staff College. He was trained in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and utilized this training to complete his doctoral dissertation. Mike was proud of his publications and his service to academia and his community. He was a dedicated teacher to his students, many commenting on his caring personality and quick wit.

Mike loved golfing, tending to his rose garden, caring for his cocker spaniels Ruffles and Bailey, and playing knock rummy and racquetball. He was a skilled craftsman who enjoyed wood working projects and carpentry. Always a devoted Washington Nationals fan, he enjoyed attending several games each year. Over many years, Mike served the Mount Vernon Country Club in many capacities, including being on the Board of Directors, Chairman of the Planning Committee, and President. He also volunteered locally at Mount Vernon Hospital.

Most notably, Mike was dedicated to his family. He could be found building a wheelchair ramp for his mother, helping layout a patio for his niece, or attending his grandchildren’s many sports activities. He loved spending time with Jean, whether tending to their roses, watching birds from their deck, or attending performances at the Kennedy Center. He loved immensely and always supported his friends and family.

Mike is survived by his son, Matthew Konopka (Crystal) of Haymarket, Virginia; his daughter, Amy Lamonato of Hopkins, South Carolina; grandchildren Dillon Konopka and Lily Konopka; a sister, Antoinette (Toni) Barbich (Frank-deceased) of Erie, Pennsylvania; nieces Deb Apthorp (Scott) of North East, Pennsylvania; and Michelle Ritzel (Jim) of Erie, Pennsylvania.

Interment will be private at his final resting place, Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.