Helen Koppenhaver

Helen Koppenhaver, everyone's Oma, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 15, 2022, surrounded by loved ones.

Almost a centurion, Helen was born on June 10, 1922, and was a daughter of Harry and Myrtle Romberger.

She graduated from Hegins Twp. High School in 1940 and attended business school in Harrisburg, and Susquehanna University.

Helen was an active congregant at St. Michael's Lutheran Church, Klingerstown, where she was the oldest member.

She was born in Klingerstown and spent 96 years of her life in her beloved Mahantongo Valley home. Helen lived at Polk Assisted Living, Millersburg, for three years and enjoyed the friendships she developed with residents and staff. She spent her last weeks in her daughter and son-in-law's home, surrounded by loved ones.

Among her family was the love of her life, the late Carlos D. Koppenhaver, to whom she was married for 53 years. She and Carlos owned and operated a general store in Klingerstown and Koppy's Propane in Williamstown.

Through the decades, culture changed but Oma's virtues stayed the same. She was dedicated to her family, and she believed in sharing the gift of hospitality, working hard and, of course, playing and socializing. Oma never passed an opportunity to play hausey, five crowns, pinochle or rummikub. Additionally, she loved laughter and said many surprising one-line comments that made everyone laugh. Known for her work ethic and generosity, she shared readily with everyone she knew. Her keen quilting skills produced many beautiful quilts for loved ones. Oma enjoyed baking and provided her signature delicious cookies, muffins and cupcakes for friends and family, including the local high school sports teams.

Helen is survived by four children, David Koppenhaver and wife, Rachel, Mary Field and husband, Norm, Rebecca Kline and companion, Darryl Miller, and Jane Weigel and husband, John. In addition, she has 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren that she adored.

She extended the role of Oma (German grandmother) to all generations and shared her optimism big-heartedly to relatives and friends alike. Her life was a testament to "treat your family like company and your company like family." Hospitality was second nature to Helen, and she welcomed both young and old into her home.

Visitation with the family is scheduled from 9 until 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 19, at St. Michael's Lutheran Church, 48 Main St., Klingerstown, with a service immediately following. Burial will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, Klingerstown. In lieu of flowers, contributions are welcomed in her honor to St. Michael's Lutheran Church or the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Valley View, has charge of arrangements. Condolences can be left for the family at www.buffingtonreed.com.