Obituary of Raymond A. Goppert, Jr.

Mr. Raymond (Ray) A. Goppert, Jr., age 71, of Rome, NY, passed away on Monday, May 2, 2022 with his loving family by his side.

     Ray was born in Utica, on December 2, 1950, the son of Raymond A. Sr, and Martha A. (Bonner) Goppert.  He was raised in Utica, was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and furthered his education at Mohawk Valley Community College.  Ray was employed with Special Metals, beginning as a furnace operator, until his election as Chief Stewart of Union local 2310, a position he held for 22 years, until his retirement.  Ray was an avid baseball fan and lover of local history.

     Ray is survived by his beloved wife and partner of 26 years, Lauri (Lash-Rowlands) Goppert; four daughters, Jay Alati, Lauren Lopez, Amber Goppert and Jackie (Corey) Smith; one son, Ray Goppert, III (Rochelle); three bonus daughters, Melissa (Jon) Ellis, Samantha O’Brien and Tracy (Charlie) Broadbent; five granddaughters, Danaya, Breonna, Camryn, Blair and Paige; three grandsons, Luis, Adrian and Dakota, as well as two great grandchildren.  He also leaves two sisters, Mary (Joe) Leone and Linda Goppert; one brother, Jeffrey Goppert and his mother-in-law, Ann Lash.  He was predeceased by his parents, Raymond, Sr., and Martha Goppert, his beloved uncle and aunt, Robert and Mary Bonner (AKA, Unk Robo and Aunt Miss Mary) and father-in-law, Lawrence Lash.

     Visitation for family and friends is Thursday, (today) May 5, 2022 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica, followed by a service at 1:30 at the conclusion of visitation.  He will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica.

     The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Rome Memorial Hospital for the excellent medical care and emotional support provided during our stay.