Marty & Lorraine Popelka

Picture this a small park dedicated to a couple. Marty and Lorraine Popelka. Their names etched in stone a testament to their service. This isn’t just a park. It’s a living memorial. It’s a tribute to a remarkable woman and her devoted husband. Lorraine Popelka served as Forest Park’s mayor for twelve years. Before that she was a village commissioner. She wasn’t just a politician. She was a force of nature. Lorraine championed the revitalization of Madison Street. She worked tirelessly to bring big businesses to town. Businesses like Gleason Chevrolet Walmart and the Forest Park Mall. These brought much needed sales tax revenue. This helped keep property taxes low for Forest Park residents. She also started the first women’s softball league in Forest Park. Lorraine participated in every national softball tournament after the gloveless playoffs began in 1969. She taught thousands of children to swim at the Park District. She was known for her warmth her courage and her unwavering dedication. But even a superwoman like Lorraine Popelka had her flaws. Her son Scott fondly recalled her less-than-stellar cooking skills and her technophobia. She even kept a Johnny Cash cassette playing in her car for months because she didn’t know how to eject it. Lorraine’s legacy extends beyond her political achievements. She was a devoted mother of five children Dan Don Diana Debbie and Scott. Her family and friends remember her kindness her generosity and her love for Forest Park. Marty Popelka Lorraine’s husband was also a pillar of the community. They were a team a power couple who dedicated their lives to making Forest Park a better place. This park this small corner of Forest Park stands as a symbol of their enduring impact. It’s a place where residents can pause reflect and remember the legacy of Marty and Lorraine Popelka. Their dedication their service their love for their community continues to inspire those who knew them and those who come to this park to learn about them. Take a moment to appreciate the quiet dignity of this memorial. Reflect on the lives of these exceptional people.