Mr. Steven “Ponch” M. Kopec, 64, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

     Steven was born in Utica, on September 9, 1959, the son of Michael and Nancy (Blackstone) Kopec. He was raised in Utica and attended Utica Free Academy. For 40 years, until his retirement, Steven was employed as an Iron worker with Union Local 440 in Utica. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and in his younger years, bowling. Steven was also a muscle car enthusiast and was of the Catholic faith.

     Steven is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Trista and Michael Knapp of Marcy; three grandchildren, Danica, Sophia and Michael; one sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl and David Pula of Clark Mills; two brothers, Thomas and Judy Kopec of Holland Patent and Michael Kopec of Waterville; step-mother, Mary Lou Kopec of Waterville; two nephews, Michael Pula and his wife Shelby and Christopher Pula and his significant other, Daniel Taylor; one niece, Mikayla Kopec; his mother Nancy’s longtime companion, Alvis Ward, as well as many dear friends, especially, Angela Brigano, Greg “Skully” Sabo and John Demko.

    Visitation for family and friends is Monday, November 13, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica.

     Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Steven’s funeral service on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest in Crown Hill Memorial Park in Kirkland. Those wishing to donate in Steven’s memory, please consider Anita’s Steven Swan Humane Society, 5664 Horatio St., Utica NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.