Sarah Lynn Popil – daughter, friend, cousin, athlete and modest hero – tragically passed away on Friday March 8, 2024 at the age of 35. The world was a better place with her in it and while the light she brought to those around her has been lost, she is now at peace.

Born on October 23, 1988, Sara grew up in Prince Albert and following her graduation from Carlton High School she attended Lethbridge College where she  graduated with a diploma in criminal justice and policing. Sarah excelled in her career as a member of the Vancouver Police Department where she made a  significant difference in the lives of many of Vancouver’s most vulnerable people; one of whom was an at-risk youth who remembered her as “the really cool cop named Pops, covered in tattoos”.

Sarah was a vibrant person with a beautiful old soul. She excelled at every sport she attempted. Her summer evenings and weekends were spent propelling her volleyball, softball and soccer teams to victory while in the winter you could find her out enjoying the best snowboarding that BC has to offer. She took every opportunity she could to be out in nature with her two dogs Coppa and Poppy – biking, camping, boating, hiking and fishing.

Sarah had the best personality, the best laugh, and the brightest smile. She will be remembered always by her loving father, Cecil Popil (her “pops”), and his partner Kathy Umpherville and her children Corry and Frank and their families. Her Aunts and Uncles, Paul and Teri Popil, Mike and Brenda Popil, Eunice and David Kozinko, and Helen Popil, along with her many cousins, will miss her terribly. She was preceded in death by her baba, Tillie Popil, and her grandfather, Joseph Popil.

Sarah touched the lives of many with her generosity, selflessness, compassion, and unwavering love for people. May she rest in peace, knowing that she was loved beyond measure and that her spirit will continue to inspire us all. Her light and vibrance have been extinguished too soon.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held in Vancouver on May 2, 2024, followed by a memorial in Prince Albert at a future date.

Those wishing to contribute to a GoFundMe account to assist Sarah’s father and the costs associated with the administration and settlement of her affairs can do so here:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/sarah-pops-popil

Alternatively, Sarah’s family asks that those wishing to make memorial contributions consider KidSport (kidsportcanada.ca), a charity that provides financial aid and support to families and youth who cannot afford to partake in extra-curricular activities.

• Date : 2024-03-08
• Location : Prince Albert