Martha Coplan

Martha Glenn Coplan, 65, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

She was born July 2, 1960, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of John and Patti (Clarke) Fletcher.Martha married James Coplan on February 7, 1991, in Topeka, Kansas. Jim preceded her in passing in 2002. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Rita Schneider, and Rita’s husband, Fred.

In her later years, Martha joined a Bible study circle, which provided her both comfort and lasting friendship. She loved her family and friends and treasured her time with them. She was also very fond of cats. She and Jim bequeathed a bench at the Topeka Zoo overlooking the Pallas cat enclosure—“scary little animals that always looked like they were sizing you up for dinner,” she liked to say. Her favorite cat was Mr. Steed, and after he ran off to join the circus—or wherever cats go when they disappear—she could not bear to get another. Still, she delighted in the company of other people’s pets, especially The General, Clarke's cat, whose pictures she preferred over conversation.

Martha had a sharp wit and a generous laugh, and she brought both to long, often inane phone calls that meant the world to those closest to her. In many ways, she faced a hard life, but always met her adversities with good humor and, when necessary, a spirited rant that was very much part of her charm. She will be deeply missed.

Martha is survived by her brother, Clarke Fletcher of Seattle, Washington; her niece, Anne Kelly, and Anne’s children; her nephews, Matt and John Schneider; as well as her stepdaughters, Amy Coplan and Bettie Coplan (Jerry Schroer), and their children.

A memorial gathering will be held at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. She will be laid to rest next to her husband, Jim, at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In her honor, memorial contributions may be made to the Helping Hands Humane Society of Topeka, KS.

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