Jason Andrew Popard, son of Wayne Arthur and Judith Jay "Judy" (Hekler) Popard, was born 23 June 1974, Michigan.  He graduated in 1992 from Okemos High School and furthered his education by graduating in 1997 from Western Michigan University.

Jason married Elizabeth Gail Meadows 23 August 1997, Ingham County.

Jason succumbed to cancer 8 December 2000, Houston, Harris County, Texas.  He was interred East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Okemos.

Lansing State Journal (Lansing, Michigan) Thursday 14 December 2000

JASON A. POPARD

KALAMAZOO

FORMERLY OF OKEMOS

Age 26, was lifted up to the loving arms of our Lord on December 8, 2000 in Houston, TX.  With him as he began his life eternal were his beautiful wife and best friend, Elizabeth Gail; his loving parents, Wayne and Judy, his devoted brother, Jeffrey and his supportive "other" mom and dad, Richard and Gail Meadows.  Jason is also survived by his grandfather, Joseph Hekler of Mecosta; uncle Joel and aunt Sue Helker; cousins, Katy, Kelly Ann and Drew of Mason; aunt Tina and Uncle Tom Garove of Tampa, FL; cousins, Andre and Ashley; and Paula Hekler of Holt, uncle Glen Popard, aunt Linda Cave, and aunt and uncle Cheryl and Bill Morris, all of Virginia, as well as many other cousins.  Born on June 23, 1974, Jason attended Okemos Public Schools and graduated in June of 1992.  He then began his studies at Western Michigan University where he graduated in 1997, with a degree in Industrial Marketing.  While at W. M.U., Jason was an officer of the Marketing Association and President of the Ski Club.  On August 23, 1997, Jason and Elizabeth were wed.  That same week they both began their careers.  Jason was an account manager for Coca Cola Co. of Kalamazoo.  Jason battle cancer for 6 years and during this time he served as an inspiration to many people.  Doctors, nurses, cancer patients, family and friends have all been deeply touched by his positive attitude and spirit of hope.  Funeral services will be held Friday, December 15, 11 a.m. at Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Road, Okemos with the Rev. Dr. John Cermak, Pastor Emeritus, Okemos Community Church, and the Rev. Tom Pederson of Price of Peace Church. Portage officiating.  Private Interment will follow in East Lawn Memorial Gardens.