George R. Nopper, 81, of Cassadaga passed away Monday evening, June 20, 2022 at Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk, surrounded by his family. His loving wife of nearly 56 years, Eleanor (Donaldson) Nopper and all his children were by his side to hug him and kiss him for a final goodbye. He was born on June 14, 1941 in Dunkirk, the son of the late Harold and Josephine (Rahn) Nopper.
George and Eleanor had an enduring love and generous commitment to one another, rarely leaving each other's side. He will leave a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends who were entertained by his stories, sense of humor and creative do-it-yourself solutions. His spirit passed peacefully, knowing that he was loved dearly and will live in their hearts forever.
A lifelong resident of the area, George was a Vietnam veteran, proudly serving in the U.S. Army from 1964-66.
He was a skilled diesel mechanic, retiring from Al Tech Specialty Steel Corp. in Dunkirk.
Survivors include his wife, Eleanor (Donaldson) Nopper; one daughter, Jennifer (Timothy) Kancar of Wheatfield, NY; three sons, Jeffrey (Aisling Heenan) Nopper of Cassadaga, Brian (Ashley) Nopper of Castle Rock, CO and Dennis (Nicole) Nopper of Sinclairville; five grandchildren, Brittany, Lindsay, Brett, Coleman and Nora; and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Harold Nopper, Jr.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, June 25 from 8:00-9:15 AM at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue in Dunkirk. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church, 145 East Main Street in Fredonia, the same church in which George and Eleanor were married in 1966. Full military honors will be accorded by the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council Honor Guard. Burial will be in Cassadaga Cemetery.
