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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Fr. Lloyd Opoka, a beloved and faithful servant of God, who departed this life on March 12, 2026, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Born on June 6, 1943, in Des Moines, Iowa, Fr. Lloyd was ordained a priest on May 25, 1968. He dedicated decades of his life to serving the people in the Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, where his gentle demeanor, kindness, and unwavering generosity touched countless hearts.

His first assignment was to St. Therese Parish in Parkville, then to St. Mary's Parish in Independence; Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish and Visitation Parish, both of Kansas City; St Catherine’s Parish, Grandview; Holy Rosary in Clinton; Holy Family Parish In Kansas City and St. Robert Bellarmine Parish in Blue Springs. He retired from St. Matthew Apostle, Kansas City in 2014.

Fr. Lloyd was known not only for his deep faith and commitment to his priestly vocation but also for the warmth and humor he brought to every interaction. His beautiful light blue eyes reflected a spirit full of life and joy. A man with a quirky and ornery sense of humor, he was quick-witted and always ready with a smile. Friends lovingly recall how he could find something hilarious in even the smallest moments, and although he believed himself to be funnier than he was, his jokes and laughter brought endless joy to those around him. Playfully called a "human garbage disposal," Fr. Lloyd never let things go to waste—once even unknowingly eating homemade dog food from the fridge, a story remembered fondly and retold with laughter, and his description of it was "it was bland, but it wasn't bad."

His greatest loves extended beyond his ministry. Fr. Lloyd cherished playing racquetball, spending time at a lake or pool with friends, or as they claimed, engaging in the pool side ministry. He doted on his beloved fur babies—his cats, dogs, and a blue parakeet that brought companionship and comfort to his days. He delighted in board and card games, especially Farkle and Trivial Pursuit. With his dear friend Fr. Mike Roach, they memorized all the answers to the 80's Version of Trivial Pursuit, which made their victories all the sweeter and their camaraderie all the stronger.

Fr. Lloyd is survived by his beloved sister, Ann Thomas, and her husband Mike; his ten nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and -nephews; and his friends. His best friends and devoted caregivers, Dodie and Patty Horgan, stood by his side with unwavering support and love for so many years. All will deeply miss him.

His journey was built on a strong family legacy. Fr. Lloyd was the cherished son of Bernard J. Opoka and Glenna (Otto) Opoka, now departed. He was also predeceased by his beloved brother, Bernard "Buddy" Opoka, Buddy’s wife, Patty and their young daughter, Tracy. His faithful four-legged companions, Inky, Cilee Girl, Phoebe, and Baby, are also happily reunited with him in Heaven.

Throughout his ministry, Fr. Lloyd’s many accomplishments reflected his tender care for people and his community. He cherished every trip to El Salvador, the hands-on work building the parish house at Holy Family Parish, and the meaningful efforts undertaken through Bishop Sullivan Center. Always ready to extend a helping hand, he embodied the very essence of going out of his way for anyone in need; a true testament to the man, friend, and faithful servant of God that he was.

A Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM, all at Holy Family Parish, located at 919 NE 96th St, Kansas City, MO 64155. All who knew Fr. Lloyd are invited to celebrate his life, honor his legacy, and find comfort in shared memories. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Bishop Sullivan Center, 6435 Truman Road, Kansas City, MO 64126.

Fr. Lloyd Opoka’s legacy is one of faith, love, laughter, and unwavering kindness. His story will forever live in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him—a gentle light whose smile endured beyond the simplest moments, teaching us all the beauty of a life well-lived in service, compassion, and joy. HERE.