Sheila Jane Dohopolski

In Loving Memory of Sheila Jane Dohopolski

Sheila Jane Dohopolski, age 69, passed away suddenly at her home in Long Beach, California, on October 16, 2026. She was born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1956, to Robert and Gale Kirkbride.

Sheila’s greatest dream in life was to be a mother. She cherished ten wonderful years as a stay-at-home mom, raising her daughters, Amber and Ashley, with Michael Dohopolski. Being a mother was her greatest joy, and the memories she made with her girls remained the most meaningful parts of her life.

Sheila worked for 34 years as a clerk at the BNSF Railway, where she developed many long-term friendships that she treasured throughout her life.

In her later years, she loved spending time surrounded by nature, exploring California’s wildflowers with her daughters, and attending classic rock concerts, where she could revisit the music and memories of her youth.

Sheila had a profound love for her family and friends, who brought so much joy and meaning to her life.

She believed that life’s greatest treasures were not material things, but life’s simple pleasures. She found peace in the quiet serenity of the desert, delighted in “pretty pink sunsets,” and enjoyed tending to her garden. She also had a special love for animals and a deep appreciation for the joy and happiness they brought to her life.

Sheila is survived by her mother, Gale Kirkbride; her siblings, Monica Petrie, Robert Kirkbride, Charlie Kirkbride, and Philip Kirkbride; and her two beloved daughters, Amber and Ashley Dohopolski.

A private celebration of life will be held on December 6, 2026, to honor and remember Sheila.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that a charitable donation be made to spcaLA in memory of Sheila Dohopolski to honor her love of animals.