Sylvester Joseph Poppiti, Jr.

     Sylvester Joseph Poppiti, Jr., age 70, of Ithaca, MI, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026, at his home.

     Per Sylvester’s wishes, cremation will take place and services will be held at a later date.

     Sylvester was born in Staten Island, NY on April 6, 1956, the son of Sylvester Joseph Sr., and Joan Lavina (Lee) Poppiti. He served in the U.S. Marines as a Recon Marine during the Vietnam War. After his service, Sylvester traveled around the country before settling in Owosso. He began working for the Lear Corporation in the 1980's, and retired in 2006.

     On December 2, 2008, Sylvester married the love of his life and best friend, Cindy Sue (Hehrer) Poppiti, in Alma, MI. They spent over 25 years together. The loved vacationing to places like Graceland and Myrtle Beach.

     Sylvester enjoyed camping, hunting, and rock n' roll. For over 20 years, Sylvester and Cindy would travel to Harrison to camp at Wilson State Park. He hunted for deer and turkey every year. Sylvester always had bands like Grand Funk Railroad and Black Sabbath playing while going about his day.

     He is survived by his loving wife Cindy; daughters: Tina (Tom) Young, and Stephanie Ittner; step-children: Jennifer DeLong, Jonathon De-Long, and Eric DeLong; his grandchildren: Kasse Young, Noah Young, and Maddalyn Meuhlfeld; his brothers: Nick (Therese) Poppiti, Mike Poppiti, Steve Poppiti, Martin Poppiti, and Kenneth Poppiti; sister-in-law Crystal Poppiti; nieces: Carie Ann Poppiti, Kayla Poppiti and Amanda Poppiti; and nephews: Tony Poppiti and Michael Poppiti. He is also survived by many great-nieces and great-nephews.  Sylvester was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Carl Poppiti.

   Online condolences may be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.