Sawyer Cope VanPoppelen
Sawyer Cope VanPoppelen, age 31, passed away in the Nolan Neighborhood of Northeast Detroit on May 15th, 2025. Sawyer is survived by his parents and his brother Holden.
He was born on June 1, 1993, in Detroit, Michigan to Patricia (Pat) and Christopher (Chris) VanPoppelen. He resided in Detroit prior to moving to Troy, Michigan.
His loving grandparents Gerald (Gerry) and Mary Lou Monroe and the deceased Frank and Mary Doris VanPoppelen opened their heart and home to Sawyer and Holden. They were fantastic babysitters and were always there when needed.
Sawyer was compassionate and strong. He cared about others more than himself. He was a charismatic and natural leader. In his youth, whether he was organizing a game with his brother and cousins or captaining the Troy rugby team, he excelled at bringing people together. Later while in the workforce he exhibited those same characteristics. He was caring, kind, intelligent and funny.
He loved and was well loved by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He especially enjoyed spending time with them in in nature, whether camping in the Upper Peninsula or vacationing in Florida.
Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Sawyer’s tribute wall at detroitcremationsociety.com.
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Sawyer was very passionate. If he was in on something he was all in. His passion, however, didn’t prevent him from being an incredible companion because he was also always aware of other people’s needs. I am thankful for the time that we had together.
My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Sawyer. I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. I was just thinking the other day about how your stories of camping with Sawyer and Holden, all those years ago, actually inspired me to start camping with my own children. I hope the beautiful love and cherished memories you shared with Sawyer will bring you some comfort and help ease your pain during this incredibly difficult time.
I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. During this time of grief, may you find solace in the love and memories you shared with Sawyer.
Patti, Our heartfelt condolences sent to you all. We are keeping you and your family in our prayers and sending much love as you navigate this heartbreaking time.
Pat- Sorry to hear of your son’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Lifting you and your family in prayer.
Your former Lynn Haven neighbor, Haley
Here’s to Sawyer, to all the lives he touched with his bright light, directly and through the many stories that echoed around him. May he rest in peace.
Chris, I wish I could properly convey the depth of the love and respect I have for you, and how effortlessly they extend to your family. Take good care.
Sawyer had a great way of making the visitors feel welcome. Even at his grandparents home. He was an excellent host and companion at family get- togethers. If anyone needed anything he was on it. Love you family, mom💕 and dad💕. Prayers are going up for you.
I did not know Sawyer; however, I know his father to be a caring and thoughtful person who treats everyone with respect. I imagine Sawyer was a fine man who shared these traits and had a kind, loving nature. My heart goes out especially to his parents and to all who loved him. May he rest in peace.
Our hearts go out to you all during the heartbreak of loosing Sawyer. Please know we are holding you up in prayer for peace and comfort during this time of sorrow.