Stopka, John Paul age 87, of Columbia Heights. Born July 2, 1928; passed away January 29, 2016. At age 22, John became the youngest mayor in the United States when he was elected mayor of Columbia Heights. He served four consecutive two year terms from 1951-1959. John was an Army veteran, member of the VFW and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He worked at movie theaters since he was a teenager and was a long-time hearse driver in the last few decades. He was loved by many and will be missed by all. Preceded in death by parents, Frank and Veronica; 2 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by niece Jeannie Thiede, nephew, Peter Stopka and a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral Service, Saturday, February 13, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at Gill Brothers Funeral Home, 5801 Lyndale Avenue S., Mpls. with visitation one hour prior to the service only. Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Honorably served by... Gill Brothers Funeral Home & Huber Funeral Homes 612-861-6088