Scott Michael Popp

Scott Michael Popp, 45, of Syracuse, departed this world too soon, leaving behind mismatched outfits, half-finished harmonica tunes, and countless hearts fuller for having known him. Scott's kindness was his defining feature. He was a fierce friend who stood up for those who couldn't look out for themselves, extending compassion to everyone he met. His adopted special needs dog, Frannie, was the grateful recipient of this boundless love, as were all the friends lucky enough to be in his orbit. Scott could fall asleep absolutely anywhere, from his parents’ living room to the lawn at a music festival, and never missed an opportunity for a good bubble bath. He was a ferocious reader and his linguistic prowess was legendary, especially around late-night campfires. Scott loved all genres of music with equal enthusiasm, from jazz to hip-hop to bluegrass. Summer festivals were his happy place, where he could be found soaking in live performances, discovering new artists, and creating memories with friends. His harmonica was never far from reach, ready to join in whenever the moment called for it. A culinary school graduate from Paul Smith’s College who treated Taco Bell with the same reverence as fine dining, Scott never made the same dish twice. His cooking philosophy was simple: why follow a recipe when you can wing it? This approach to food mirrored his approach to life - unpredictable, creative, and full of interesting experiences. Scott's life took him from Syracuse to Orlando, Key West, Austin, and Saranac Lake before returning to his Syracuse roots. Along the way, he collected memories, music, and an impressive array of unusual instruments that he taught himself to play with enthusiasm, if not always precision. His wardrobe choices were gloriously eclectic - Hawaiian shirts paired with plaid shorts and tie dye, or a football pinnie at a captain and crew golf tournament. He wasn't just making a fashion statement; he was starting an entire conversation. Scott found peace in nature - camping, fishing, and stargazing. This love of the outdoors stemmed from his time as a Boy Scout and summers in Piseco and continued into festivals and camping as an adult. His nephews will miss their energetic uncle cheering them on at school and sporting events. Scott is survived by his parents, George and Debra Popp; his brother Jeffrey Popp and sister-in-law Ali; nephews Harrison, Crosby, and Campbell Popp; Aunt Janet Courtney and cousins William Courtney (Tamara), Heidi Courtney, Franklin Courtney, and Debbie Courtney (Jay Streeter); Aunt Sandra Popp and cousins Bethany Espinosa (Daniel) and Katelin Popp; and Donna Aitken Popp who he was married to for 9 years. While Scott's death is tragic, and he will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched, we prefer to remember him as he lived - refusing to take himself too seriously and teaching us all that the best way to approach life is with an open heart, a sense of adventure, and occasionally, a harmonica. A celebration of Scott's life will be held on Sunday, June 29, starting at 11 a.m. with a graveside service at Higgins Bay Cemetery in Piseco followed by a reception of friends at 1 p.m. at the Lemon Tree Brewery in Speculator, NY. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Brindle Posse Rescue (https://www.brindleposse.org/), where they save special dogs like Scott's beloved Frannie. Scott would have wanted us all to wear our loudest patterns and share our wildest stories while remembering him.

Tributes

Scott Michael Popp

May 4, 2025