Andrew C. “Drew” Popoff

With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, Drew Popoff, born May 19, 1960 and died September 1, 2021 from cancer at age 61.  Drew was the sixth of nine children born to Donald and Metta (O’Dell) Popoff.  Starting at the young age of 13, Drew worked for many years with his family at the Popoff Meat Company in what is now Lansing’s REO Town.  Drew’s sensitive and creative spirit was often expressed through music, art, and writing.  He leaves behind many drawings and paintings that convey his spiritual beliefs and personal philosophy, and his family and friends will forever cherish them.  He was an avid reader of both fiction and history and had a deep knowledge and interest in Lansing’s history.  He often walked and explored the banks of the Grand River next to his home, occasionally discovering small historical artifacts he donated to local museums.  As a lifelong nature lover, Drew enjoyed camping and canoeing Michigan rivers with special memories of time spent on the Pine River with friends.  He was also unfailing in his personal belief and efforts to value our planet and to protect and preserve our environment for future generations.  Drew’s daily interactions were guided by an unwavering faith in the inherent goodness of others, even while in conflict.  Drew was a good man. He strove to be honest, authentic, and caring in every interaction and activity and believed in the universal bond of love.

Drew is survived by his siblings, Thomas Popoff, Joseph (Kathy) Popoff, Donna McCarthy, Christopher Popoff, Amy Popoff, Timothy (Pat) Popoff, and Paula (Kurt) Steffen; many cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends, including his former neighbor and friend Vivian.  He also leaves behind Smooth, Jazz, and Mama Kitty – three of the many, many cats he adopted, loved, and cared for over the years.  Drew was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Metta Popoff, sister Rebecca Popoff, nephew George Popoff, brother-in-law Tim McCarthy, Sr., cousins Jennifer, Cameron, and Allan Johns, and cherished friends. Funeral services will be arranged through Estes-Leadley Funeral Home (Lansing) with interment of ashes at Evergreen Cemetery.  A memorial celebration of Drew’s life for family and friends will be held at Grand Woods Park (Delta Twp).  A late September date is being determined for both funeral and memorial for those interested in joining us.  Online condolences may be left for his family at www.EstesLeadley.com.