Gloria C. Poppel

Gloria C. Poppel, 80, of Berlin, died Sunday, August 29, 2010 at Middlesex Hospital after a short illness. She was the widow of Clifford "Kiki" Poppel who died in 1995. Born in New Haven, CT, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Katherine Reale Caruso. She was a Berlin resident most of her life and was formerly employed as a school teacher in the New Britain School System. Gloria was a member of Sacred Heart Church in East Berlin. She was an active member of the church and volunteered in the community, belonging to many organizations. Gloria was an extraordinarily loving mother and loyal friend. She cherished her family and friends. Gloria never turned down opportunities to go shopping, out to eat, or get together with family and friends, and play cards. Some of her happiest times were spent wintering in Florida and entertaining family and friends. She was generous, warm and giving. Gloria leaves a legacy of love and friendship. Surviving are a son, Clifford Poppel and his wife April of Springboro, OH; two daughters, Marcy Poppel and her partner Herb Paddock of Middletown, Debi Reed and her husband Bruce of Westboro, MA; a sister, Dorothy Brzozowski and her husband Dick of Plainville; six grandchildren, Denise, Katie, and Sarah, from Springboro, OH, Chris, Melissa, and Ali of Westboro, MA; two great-grandchildren, Randy and Isabelle from Ohio; many nieces and nephews; and many friends. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Sal Caruso. The family would like to thank Gloria's many friends for their friendship, support, and kindness expressed during the past years. Funeral services will be held Friday at 9:00 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 South Main New Britain followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church in East Berlin. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain. Calling hours are Thursday from 5-8 PM. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution in Gloria's name are kindly asked to consider Sacred Heart Church, 48 Cottage Street, East Berlin, CT 06023 or Middlesex Hospital Hospice, 28 Crescent Street, Middletown, CT 06457.