Dennis E. Kopitzke Sr., age 78, New London, passed away on Friday, February 19, 2016.
He was born on August 19, 1937 in New London, son of the late Elmer and Viola (Schoen) Kopitzke. He graduated from Washington High School, New London, class of 1955. Dennis married his high school sweetheart Karen Evans on October 4, 1958; they had a loving marriage for 57 years. They purchased the farm on July 20, 1971. Dennis was a life long member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, New London where he was baptized, confirmed and married. He served on the school board, finance board, and ushered; he also volunteered his time to individuals who needed a ride to or from appointments. He worked at Elmer’s Market (Denny’s) and Valley Dairy Equipment. Dennis served his country in the Naval Reserves for 10 years. He attended the HODAG Country Music Fest in Rhinelander for 31 years. Dennis’ joy was his family; he will be remembered for his infectious smile.
He is survived by his wife Karen; children: Cindy (Robert III) Zemple; Dennis Jr. (Denise) Kopitzke; Sandy (Tony) Vazquez; grandchildren: Beau (Crystal) Kopitzke, Amanda (Adam) Collar, Adam (April) Kopitzke, Robert IV (Sarah) Zemple, Rebekah (Kyle) Jones, Kristy Shostak and Benjamin (Alex) Zemple; great-grandchildren: Aubree Kopitzke; Aidan Collar, Amara Collar; Leaf and Copper Kopitzke; Robert V, Heidi, Brent, and Chad Zemple; Malakhi Shostak; Brynnlee Zemple; Jameson Kopitzke and two on the way, a great-grandson in April and great-granddaughter in June; brother in-law, Ronald (Elaine) Evans; sister-in-law, Bonnie Kopitzke; and special aunt, Enola Steinbach. Dennis is further survived by many nephews, nieces, other relatives and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Arthur and Elsie Kopitzke; brother, William Kopitzke; two infant great-granddaughters; father and mother in-law, Ronald and Irene Evans and a sister-in-law, Geraldine.
Funeral services for Dennis will be held on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Emanuel Lutheran Church, New London with Rev. William Heiges officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in the Floral Hill Cemetery, New London. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Emanuel Lutheran Tuition Fund are preferred. Tthe Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London is serving the family. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com