Scott L. Small Opperman

Scott L. (Small) Opperman, 62, of Wapakoneta, OH, passed away at 5:41 AM, Friday, August 6, 2021 at Mercy Health-St. Rita's, Lima, OH, after a brief battle with cancer.  He was born on September 9, 1958 in Portland, OR to Walter L. and Marcia E. (Carpenter) Small who survive in Kelso, WA.  Twenty one years and seven months ago, Scott met his husband, Michael R. Opperman, who survives in Wapakoneta.

Survivors also include two sisters, Shelley Smart, of Ladera Ranch, CA, and Shannah Dolman, of Kelso, WA; his mother-in-law, Sonia Opperman, of Wapakoneta; father-in-law, Terry (Kathy) Opperman, of Wapakoneta; four sister-in-laws, Rachel Small, of Anchorage, AK, Jennifer (Michael) Whitehead, of Wapakoneta, Heather (David Roether) Hauenstein, of Corvallis, OR, and Kellie Lehman, of Van Buren, OH; and an extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, whom he loved dearly.

Scott was preceded in death by his brother, Steven Small; and nephew, Cameron Small.

A love for learning, music and family began at a very young age for Scott.  He excelled at school and became an accomplished trombonist. He will be remembered as an amazing brother, who made Christmastime magical for his family.  In 1978, Scott graduated from Aviation High School in Redondo Beach, CA.  He then enlisted in the United States Air Force, from 1978-1986, playing trombone in the Air Force band and then serving as a basic training instructor.  Following his discharge, he worked as a radiology technician at Providence Hospital, Anchorage, Alaska.  While there, he continued his education, by receiving his Associates of Applied Science and Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education from Wayland Baptist University.  During this time, Scott and Michael began their relationship and have been inseparable since.  Scott also received his Masters from The University of LaVerne in Science Business Organizational Management, with a concentration in Human Resources Management and Development, and a concentration in Health Services Management.  He worked as a person in charge at Fred Meyer, while in Alaska.  He then attended The University of LaVerne Law School, while working as a paralegal.  Scott then began his teaching credentials and taught second language English.  After moving to Ohio, he worked for Western & Southern Financial Group in Lima, before moving to Honda Transmissions, Russells Point.  Most recently, Scott received his real estate license and worked for Key Realty of Findlay-Lima. 

When not furthering his education, he and Michael enjoyed traveling and spoiling their canine sons, Maverick (d) and Cooper Levi.

Scott will be cremated in according to his wishes.  The family has entrusted Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Wapakoneta to handle the arrangements.

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