Obituary of Will Poppe

After a brief, intense battle with cancer, Will peacefully passed away, his wife by his side, on December 22^nd, 2021.  A loving husband, amazing father, livelong learner, Will lived a full life focused on the important things that bring happiness to our lives: family, friends, nature and community.

Will, only child to Antonina and Wilfried, was born in Brandenburg, Germany. He studied History, Public Administration and Human Geography in Germany and the United States.  Will had a global mindset and was passionate for social and urban issues. He published peer-reviewed research on socio-economic challenges facing refugees, volunteered with NGOs supporting refugees in the U.S. and Canada, and joined a group of private sponsors reuniting refugee families in Canada.

After leaving the academia, Will established himself as an independent professional translating academic papers and teaching the German language.  He displayed a strong entrepreneurial spirit and built strong relationships with students and business partners; many of whom considered Will a friend. 

Will and Carla had a deep connection based on love and trust; they married in 2009 and were blessed with their beautiful daughter, Sophia. Will quickly developed new skills as father, playmate, soccer, cross-country skiing, skating and swimming coach, chef and much more.  Saturday-night kitchen parties and air-guitar concerts were full of laughter. Hiking, camping, and bird watching were preferred family activities.  Teamwork was their favourite word.

Will’s honesty, humility, witty humor, resourcefulness, thoughtfulness, ability to enjoy the essence of life, are important elements of his legacy.  Will’s love will always be in Carla’s mind and heart and his memory will be cherished by her daughter, Sophia. He is lovingly remembered by his parents, Antonina and Wilfried, mother-in-law, Nancy and her husband Guillermo, as well as family and friends. 

The family deeply thank all the support and kindness received during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to your preferred charity supporting kids, underserved communities or nature.

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