Bernard J. "Buddy" Opoka

Bernard Joseph “Buddy” Opoka, 80 of Clinton, MOformerly of Blue Springs, MO, passed away Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at University of Kansas Medical Center. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 3, 2025 at St. John Lalande Catholic Church with inurment to follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. There will be a rosary recited at 9:30 a.m. followed be family visitation from10:00 a.m., until service time Monday at the church. In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations to St. Judes Children’s Hospital.  Buddy was born September 27, 1944 in Des Moines, IA to Bernard J. and Glenna (Otto) Opoka and has been a longtime area resident graduating from St.Mary’s High School. He was a truck driver and had worked for a number of years for Yellow Freight among other companies until his retirement in the late1990’s. He enjoyed fishing, old cars, camping and most of all, spending time with his family. He was a Shriner, member of the Masonic Lodge and the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of St. John Lalande Catholic Church. He was married to Patricia “Patty” (Hennrich) on April 23, 1965 and enjoyed 56 years of marriage until her passing in 2021. He is survived by; 4 children, Amy Hale and husband Jon, Brian Opoka and wife Pam, Scott Opoka and wifeTracy and Penny Bronson and husband Jeff; a sister, Ann Thomas and husband Michael; a brother, Lloyd Opoka; 11 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a.daughter, Tracy Lynn Opoka in 1971. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)