Anthony Michael Opyrchal

Tony Opyrchal

Memorial Mass Saturday April 21, 2018

St. Edith Catholic Church

15089 Newburgh Rd. Livonia, MI 48154

(South of Five Mile Rd.)

In-State 10:00am, Mass 11:00am

Tony Opyrchal was a man of many characteristics and carried as many nicknames over his years. Known to his siblings as "Junie" short as a junior to his Dad, he was also lovingly referred to as Rudyard, Junebug, DC Tony and of course, Tony.

Tony Opyrchal, ”have a good life!” The final words spoken to his sister, Antoinette. A man all of us knew in their own way. Nobody from his brother to three sisters knew the entire personal story of his life. The life that began in Greater Detroit and ended back to his roots. His life's journey included the educational path starting at St. Mary's of Redford for High School, the University of Detroit Mercy for a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Economics and Post Graduate studies at George Washington University.

Tony's professional journey included the position of Economist for Blue Cross and for twenty years the position of Economist, Division of Regulatory and Policy Analysis with the U.S. Bureau of Mines in Washington, D.C. Then, a teaching assignment at Madonna University as Adjunct Assistant Professor.

Tony’s journey of extensive worldwide travel, most often by himself, provided many opportunities to visit extended family, family ancestry and cultural diversity. Domestic journeys to the West Coast, the South East and New England states were often combined with numerous stays with friends and family. Long trips to Alaska, Mexico and South America were on his radar. Trips to our Father’s place of birth, Poland, were painstakingly planned to experience family history and interact with people who knew our father. A journey to China and the Great Wall and visits to historical sites were documented by Tony. He loved to travel and always, always, always struck up conversations with the local natives to learn about their lifestyles. Tony was no stranger to driving by himself. His vehicle for travel was equipped with food and beverage provisions, a tent for camping and a storehouse of survival items. Tony loved to travel “alone” with his thoughts and discovery of the purpose of life.

Tony's journey as an Air Traffic Controller in the United States Air Force took him from California to France. It was during this period that Tony developed his passion for flying. He started a period of over 30 years and piloted hundreds of flights in numerous geographic locations until last year when very reluctantly he surrendered his pilot eligibility.

Tony's love of animals, from horses to dogs, is well documented by friends and family. He also had opinions about many subjects and enjoyed extended conversations with friends and family. It is time to say "enjoy your next journey" Let us know how you are and “have a good life”!

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