Edgar Lee Opel

Edgar Lee Opel, 90, of Sandy, Utah (formerly of Bay City, Michigan), died peacefully in the arms of his daughters at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah, on January 2, 2026. Born September 10, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, he was preceded in death by his wife Corrine (Hillis); his parents, Roy and Amelia (Walter) Opel; his stepmother Clara (Richert) Opel; and his siblings Walter, Clemens, Lester, Roland, and Amelia (Kenyon). He is survived by daughter Elizabeth of Midvale, Utah; sons Paul (Janine) of Baldwinsville, New York, and Kurt (Anna) of Macomb, Michigan; daughter Susan also of Midvale; grandsons David and Jonathan also of Macomb; brother Warren (Lois) of Clarkston, Michigan; and many nieces and nephews. Edgar was baptized into Christ in 1935 and attended Redford Lutheran School (now Zurstadt Lutheran) in Redford, Michigan, where he fostered a love for learning and a commitment to Christian values. He was confirmed in 1949. After high school, he attended Concordia Lutheran Teachers College in Seward, Nebraska, graduating with a degree in education. He later obtained a master’s degree in geography from the University of Michigan. Ed married the love of his life and faithful companion of 58 years, Corrine, on August 9, 1958. Their union was an inspiration to everyone who knew them. As a family, the Opels loved to take road trips, make music, and enthusiastically cheer on their beloved sports teams, especially the Detroit Tigers. For more than 50 years, Ed served with unwavering dedication at St. John Lutheran School (Amelith) in Bay City, Michigan, teaching a diverse range of subjects. Beyond the classroom, he embraced various leadership roles, serving as youth director, athletic director, coach, Bible and confirmation class teacher, pre-marital counselor, and more. Ed even had all four of his own children as students! As a teacher and principal, Ed was known for his firm but fair hand and nurturing spirit. Students, colleagues, and parents remember him as a patient and compassionate guide who nurtured both intellectual growth and spiritual development. A pillar of faith, Ed actively participated in his local congregation serving on various committees, singing in choir and for funerals and weddings, assisting in liturgical duties, visiting shut-ins, and pitching for the church men’s softball team. Professionally, he received many accolades and awards as a respected Lutheran educator and distinguished leader. Corrine and Edgar moved to Sandy, Utah, in December 2015 to enable their daughters to care for them. After Corrine’s death in September 2016, Edgar enjoyed many Western adventures
with Beth and Susan, including trips to Sonoma, Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Moab, Seattle, and more. His quick wit and “Dad jokes” were a source of amusement to many; he excelled at solving crossword puzzles and proudly represented his Michigan sports teams. He was an active member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Riverton and served as a resident ambassador at Solstice Senior Living until his death. Ed’s life was a testament to the power of education, friendship, and family, rooted deeply in his Christian faith. The family will receive visitors for one hour prior to the memorial service at St. John Lutheran Church, 1664 Amelith Road, Bay City, Michigan, on Saturday, March 14, at 11 a.m. Rev. Jerry Gauthier and Rev Stephen Starke will officiate.The internment in St. John Cemetery will be followed by a luncheon at the school. A local service was held at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Riverton, Utah, in January. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Edgar’s name to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Riverton, Utah.

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