William Otto Poppen Jr., born February 6, 1938, in Omaha to William Otto Sr. and Mabel E. Poppen, passed away on August 12, 2026.

A devoted husband and father, Bill dedicated 44 years of service to the United States Postal Service, beginning his career in 1961 and retiring in 2006. Throughout those decades, he also served in various state and local leadership roles within the American Postal Workers Union and was recognized as an award winning editor of the APWU newsletter.

Bill was deeply passionate about coaching youth football, a commitment that spanned much of his life. He led the KWAA Packers from 1970 to 1980 and the Centaurs from 1980 until his coaching retirement in 2000. During those years, he not only coached his sons and grandsons, but also influenced and encouraged hundreds of young athletes, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

In retirement, Bill cherished time spent with his wife and ever growing family. He took great pride in maintaining his lawn, enjoyed many casino and bingo outings with his daughters, and looked forward to regular family card game nights.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his children Connie (Ed) Luick, Bill (Denise) Poppen, Robert Poppen, Carol (Eric) Casper, and George (Sunny Herrera) Poppen; his grandchildren Joshua, Kurt, Max, Alex, Nolan, Amy, Adam, Chantal, Cody, Aidan, and Bryce; many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; his sister Sandra (Scott) Knudsen; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Vicki Hannon; grandchildren Wes, Chad, and Brianna; and his parents.

Visitation will be held Monday, August 17, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler Mortuaries, 7805 W. Center Road, Omaha, NE. Funeral Service will take place Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the same location. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Salvation Army in Bill’s name.

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