Daren Alan Juopperi

ALMONT, Mich. - Daren Alan Juopperi, aka Matthew James, 31, lost his battle of addiction to a heroin overdose on Jan. 30, 2016.

Daren was born on May 14, 1984, to James Cronk and Kristina Tarnaski.

Daren started his education in Wakefield and proceded to obtain credits towards an automotive degree.

He made his family in Lower Michigan, meeting Norma Chapman, who gave birth to their two children, Devon John James and Savanna Marie. Through them he remains with us.

Daren is loved by many which precedes his many nicknames, "Mutt," from his late grandmother, Martha; "Shorty," from his friends up north; and "Pinky," from his Lower Michigan friends.

He is survived by James and Kristina, Paul and Jeremy Boleau, Aaron Tarnaski and Bethany Castillo; an aunt, Lita Sullivan; an uncle, Chuck Juopperi; special brothers, Jj Havenor and Justin Clark; many cousins, nieces and nephews; and his children and Norma.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Martha; James and Al Tarnaski; and two aunts, Vicki Atkinson and Lisa Lonchar.

Norma kept their children safe from his addiction through her strong will and protection. She continues to blossom their father's spirit.

Daren's personal charm and smile drew people into his heart. A caring son, hard worker, loving father, loyal brother and great friend; he is terribly missed.

If you are suffering from addiction, recovery is priceless to those hearts who love you more than that moment you did yourself. Don't stop today, tomorrow comes and will never be as hard as it is today.

A memorial service is pending and will be held in Wakefield.