Michael Opfer Obituary

Michael A. Opfer

Feb 1, 1963 - Jan 22, 2024

Sandusky

Michael Opfer, 60, residing in Sandusky, passed away unexpectedly Monday morning, Jan. 22, 2024.

Michael was born Feb. 1, 1963, in Sandusky, to Robert and Evelyn (Scales) Opfer.

A son of God, husband, father, opa, friend, and of course, an Opfer. In German, the word "Opfer" means "an offering" or "sacrifice" and there's no better word that could be used to describe his life to those who loved him.

Michael poured himself out to his family and friends. As his children grew up, he would consistently be found playing sports with them in the backyard and he never missed the chance to attend their sporting events, art shows, and other extracurricular activities. He carried this playful spirit into his later years with his six grandchildren and would often be found on the ground with them playing games.

Michael also poured himself into his community and St. Mary's High School. Graduating from the school in 1981, he served as both the high school track coach ('85-'91) and later the head football coach ('97-'02). He led the girls track team to 67 consecutive dual meet victories, including five Sandusky Bay Conference titles, three regional championships, and a state runner-up in 1990. He led the football team to the playoffs in 2002 and was a part of the program in some capacity for over 40 years. He created the SMCC Hall of Fame and was later inducted as a member in 2010.

He loved watching Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Pirates, listening to Bob Seger, eating a good "well done" burger or pizza, and enjoying a slice of cheesecake or pumpkin pie. His greatest joy was spending time with family and giving 111% to every part of his life.

Michael was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and Huron St. Peter's Catholic Church. He enjoyed visits to the Sorrowful Mother Shrine, volunteering his time to OHgo, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and St. Mary's Central Catholic Schools.

Michael is survived by five children, Aaron (Devan Graham) Opfer, Kelsey (Kyle) Racette, Austin (Leanna) Opfer, Alex Opfer, and Ayden Opfer; most beloved grandchildren, Archer, August, Ambrose, and baby Racette due in April; also Avila, Lucia, and Faustina Opfer; former of wife of 35 years and mother of his children, Dana Opfer; beloved sister, Mary (Joe) Slak; brothers, Ed (Julie) Opfer, Ron Opfer, and Bob Opfer; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim Opfer; and sister, Barb Opfer.

Visitation for friends will be 3-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, at Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1607 E. Perkins Ave., Sandusky. In honor of Michael, feel free to wear your favorite team colors. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. Father Dave Nuss will officiate. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Sandusky.

Those wishing to contribute to Michael's memory may do so to Sorrowful Mother Shrine, 4106 OH-269, Bellevue, Ohio, 44811, or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, New York, 10163.

Condolences may be shared online at www.grofffuneralhomes.com.