Emily Konopka, a beloved television producer and longtime member of the FOX 6 Milwaukee family, passed away on Sunday, August 24, 2025. Emily dedicated over a decade of her career to FOX 6, where she first joined as an associate producer before stepping into her most cherished role as producer of the station’s popular morning program, Real Milwaukee.
Colleagues and viewers alike remember her passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her work, which helped shape the show’s unique voice and connect with the community. Beyond her career, Emily was known for her zest for life and the many passions that brought her joy.
A devoted Jonas Brothers fan since their earliest days, she rarely missed a concert and often shared her love for music with friends and family. Above all, she adored Taylor Swift’s music, proudly calling herself a lifelong “Swiftie.” As loved ones have said, “There’s a Swiftie in Heaven today.”
Emily was also an avid photographer, capturing life’s moments through her creative lens. Her family and friends will remember her not only for her artistry but also for her kindness, warmth, and ability to make everyone around her feel special.
She is survived by her parents, Michael and Helen Konopka; her sister, Kathryn (Nick) Lillig; and her beloved niece and nephew, Kacie and Cole Lillig, who knew her affectionately as “Auntie Em.” She also leaves behind her uncles Richard (Margaret) Konopka, Tom Konopka, James Konopka, Paul Sobczak, and Steve Sobczak; cousins Amanda (Pat) Ahern and Brian (Katrina) Konopka; and countless friends who loved her dearly.
Emily was preceded in death by her grandparents, Edmund and Ronalda Konopka, Leonard and Shirley Sobczak, and her uncle, Jeff Sobczak.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Ringa Funeral Home, 122 S. Milwaukee Ave., Lake Villa, IL. A funeral Mass will follow on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Lake Villa. Guests are asked to meet directly at the church for Mass. Cremation and private burial of her remains will take place at a later date.
