Galamarie Poppenhager

Obituary of Galamarie Poppenhager

Galamarie McCracken was born on March 15, 1947 in Sayre, Pennsylvania. She was one of seven children and the only daughter born from the union of her parents: the late Cloyd McCracken and the late Vivian (Deitz) McCracken. Her family moved from Pennsylvania to Monroe, Michigan at a young age. She received her education by attending Deerfield High School and graduated with the Class of 1965.

Galamarie met and married the love of her life: Charles Poppenhager and it was from this union that came the birth of their three children. Gala worked hard to support her family by working as a Circuit Board Quality Control Inspector until taking employment at Lutheran Social Services as a caregiver.

Gala served as a cub scout leader, enjoyed playing Bingo and was an avid bowler who bowled on many leagues. In her spare time, she liked to crochet and watch her favorite television shows including: NCIS, Law and Order and gameshows. She had the ability to make anyone around her laugh with her quick wit and free spirit. She was an amazing cook and baker and was famous for her dinner rolls.

Above everything, Gala loved her family. She was an amazing mother who always made sure her family was well taken care of and she cherished time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her funny personality and loving nature are just a few things that will be deeply missed by her family and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Galamarie Poppenhager, age 72 of Monroe, passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2019 at ProMedica Monroe Skilled Care and Rehab. In addition to her parents, her passing is preceded by her former husband of 25+ years: Charles Poppenhager and her brothers: Daniel McCracken, Dennis McCracken, Donald McCracken and Dudley McCracken. 

To cherish her memory, she leaves her children: Tina (John) Patrick of Monroe, Shean Poppenhager of Monroe, Terri Grob of Toledo; her brothers: Darwin McCracken and Douglas McCracken; her grandchildren: Derek Stoll, Nathan Stoll, Sierra Poppenhager, Andrew Poppenhager, Summer Poppenhager, Kayla Grob, Jacob Bacon, Kyleigh Bacon, RaeAnn Henager and Ryan Patrick; 11 great grandchildren and many extended family members and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A memorial service will take place at a later date to be determined by the family.

Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration or share a photo by visiting our website at www.merklefs.com.