Emil Oprisu

Emil Andrew Oprisu 86, of Speedway and The Villages, Florida, died Sunday peacefully surrounded by family. Born in Terre Haute, Indiana to Romanian immigrants, he graduated from Garfield High School in 1942. After attending one year at Rose Poly Technical Institute, he enlisted in the Navy and returned from WWII as a decorated Naval Corpsman, awarded a Purple Heart for his bravery during service. In his post-service years, he worked summers at the Champagne Velvet Brewery in Terre Haute to put himself through school. He graduated from Tri-State University in 1952 with a degree in Chemical Engineering and was notably recognized by Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities. He retired in 1985 after having worked for Allison Gas Turbine for over 33 years and was a long-time member of the American Legion Speedway Post #500. A loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather, he enjoyed working in his yard and around the house, traveling and spending leisure time with his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Rita (Rosner); sisters, MaryAnn (Paul) Rosner and Letitia (Al) Gindele; daughter, Jennifer (Rob) Messmer; sons, Jeff (Lori) and Timothy (Nicole); grandchildren, Nicholas, William and Benjamin (Oprisu); and step-grandchildren, Alexis and Chase (Messmer). He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Anna Oprisu; and his brother, Nick Oprisu. A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends TODAY, August 31 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 5727 Hollister Drive in Speedway. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to American Legion Speedway Post #500 or Parkinson's Disease Foundation. Arrangements were entrusted to Stevens Mortuary and Family Center. www.stevensmortuary.net