Martha "Tudy" Ann Kopatz

Martha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, volunteer, and cherished member of her community. She passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and dedication to her family. A lifelong homemaker, Martha devoted herself to raising her four active and athletic children while also tending to three family gardens. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred Kopatz Jr.; and sisters, Juanita Moore and Felicia Pavlick. Martha is survived by her children, Margaret Kraus (Steven), John Kopatz, Fred “Fritz” Kopatz III (Brenda L. Overstreet-Kopatz), and Cheryl Kopatz; and her grandchildren, Michael Kraus (Mallory), David Kraus, and Sam Davenport (Jeanna); great grandchildren, Nora Ruth Davenport and Isabel Gemini Davenport; and brothers, Felix “Skip” Watkins Jr. (Millie) and John David Watkins (Nancy). Martha began her education at Mill Creek Elementary and later proudly supported her children throughout their years at Mill Creek Elementary, Gutermuth Elementary, and Doss High School. She gladly drove them to countless track meets, baseball and softball games, soccer matches, and wrestling events, always encouraging their accomplishments and cheering them on. Two of her children went on to earn college track scholarships, a testament to the dedication and support she gave her family. A woman of strong faith, Martha was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church, where she served on the Altar Guild, participated in Bible Study, and proudly served as President of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML). Martha also dedicated herself to serving her community. She served as Auxiliary Chaplain at St. Matthew’s American Legion Post 180 and enjoyed participating in trivia and bingo. Alongside her husband, Fred, she volunteered with the PRP Senior Center, delivering Meals on Wheels to those in need. She also contributed her time and talents to the Valley High School Reunion Committee. Beginning in 1992, Martha and Fred devoted themselves to the 78th Troop Carrier Squadron Association of the Army Air Force. Martha served as secretary, coordinated reunions, produced the association’s monthly printed newsletter, and created the annual Memory Book until 2004. Her commitment helped preserve the history, memories, and friendships of those connected to the organization. Martha and Fred found great joy in dancing to the music at the German American Club Gesangverein. She also enjoyed trivia, reading history and biographies, gardening, and traveling with her dear friends, Maureen and Trudy. Martha’s life was defined by faithful service, unwavering devotion to her family, and a genuine love for her church and community. She will be remembered for the countless ways she gave herself to others and for the lasting love she shared with her family and friends. Her memory will continue to live on in all those who were blessed to know and love her. Her funeral services will be provided by Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Hwy. Visitation will be on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. The funeral service will begin at noon on Thursday, followed by burial at Highland Memory Gardens.

Martha "Tudy" Ann Kopatz

August 20, 1933 - August 8, 2026