The community of St. Francis, Wisconsin, and beyond is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Emily Marie Konopka, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at the age of 32.

Known for her bright spirit, kindness, and immense creativity, Emily left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and colleagues, who will forever cherish her memory.

Emily was born on January 15, 1993, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to her loving parents Michael and Helen Konopka. She spent her childhood years in several places, growing up in Oostburg, Wisconsin, Terre Haute, Indiana, and Lake Villa, Illinois.

These experiences shaped her into a compassionate, adventurous, and openhearted individual who embraced life with joy and curiosity. After completing her studies, Emily pursued a career in broadcasting, a field where her creativity and energy naturally shone.

She spent an impressive 10 years with FOX 6 Milwaukee, first serving as an associate producer before advancing to producer of the station’s popular morning program, Real Milwaukee.

Her colleagues recall her tireless dedication, innovative ideas, and her ability to bring both structure and warmth to the daily broadcast. Producing the show was more than just a career to Emily—it was truly a passion, and she poured her heart into every detail.

Outside of her professional achievements, Emily had many passions that brought her joy. A devoted music lover, she was a longtime Jonas Brothers fan, supporting the group since their earliest performances in small venues.

Her enthusiasm for their music was only surpassed by her love for Taylor Swift, whose lyrics and melodies resonated deeply with her. Friends fondly joke that “there is a Swiftie in Heaven today,” knowing Emily’s love for Taylor’s songs will live on as part of her spirit.

Emily was also a gifted photographer, often capturing life’s fleeting moments with a unique and thoughtful perspective. Her photos reflected her creative eye and her ability to find beauty in everyday life.

Those who knew Emily will remember her not only for her talents but also for her kindness, warmth, and love of life. She had a special ability to make others feel seen, valued, and cared for, and her presence brought comfort and joy to those around her.

Emily leaves behind her parents, Michael and Helen Konopka, and her sister Kathryn (Nick) Lillig, as well as her beloved niece and nephew, Kacie and Cole Lillig, who knew her as their cherished “Auntie Em.”

She is also survived by her uncles Richard (Margaret) Konopka, Tom Konopka, James Konopka, Paul Sobczak, and Steve Sobczak, along with her cousins Amanda (Pat) Ahern and Brian (Katrina) Konopka, and many dear friends who loved her like family.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents Edmund and Ronalda Konopka and Leonard and Shirley Sobczak, as well as her uncle Jeff Sobczak.

A visitation for Emily will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at Ringa Funeral Home, 122 S. Milwaukee Ave., Lake Villa, IL 60046. A funeral mass will follow on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Lake Villa.

Guests are kindly asked to meet directly at the church for Mass. Cremation and private burial of her cremated remains will take place thereafter.

Emily Marie Konopka will be remembered for her joyful heart, her creative spirit, and the love she so freely gave to those around her. Her life, though far too short, was filled with purpose, light, and meaning. She will remain forever in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.