Margaret Ida (Bischoff) Koppelman age 98, died peacefully, Friday, May 30, 2013, at Kingston Memory Care of Sylvania, Ohio.
She was born in Whiteford Township, Riga, Michigan, to Ida (Pollex) and George F. Bischoff on July 13, 1914. Margaret married Erwin Koppelman June 15, 1940, and celebrated 46 anniversaries before his death in 1986. She is survived by her four talented sons: Duane (Susan) Koppelman, of Tecumseh, Ronald (Cheryl) Koppelman, of Fort Recovery, Ohio, Richard Koppelman (Sue Sandlin), Toledo, Ohio, Gary (Beverly) Koppelman, of Blissfield; 14 beautiful grandchildren; 11 wonderful great-grandchildren; 3 step grandchildren; and 8 step-great-grandchildren; sister Yvonne McDole; sister-in-law Pat Bischoff; and many special nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; brothers, Loren and Lavern Bischoff; sisters, Emma Uloth, infant Blanche Bischoff and Gertrude McKimmey; and grandson, Joseph Koppelman.
After graduating from Blissfield High School in 1932, she attended Lenawee County Normal School and received a teaching certificate. Her first job was teaching grades 1-8 for 10 years at Columbia School, Ottawa Lake. Once her sons started school, Mrs. Koppelman returned to teaching elementary education at Whiteford Agricultural Schools, Ottawa Lake, retiring in 1978, having taught a total of 32 years. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in 1964 in elementary education from Adrian College, Adrian. Upon retirement, Margaret volunteered in the Whiteford community for many years working on the Bicentennial Whiteford Township History Book, assembling the Whiteford School monthly newsletters, participating at the Bedford Senior Center, and enjoying judging crafts at the Monroe County Fair. She also received the Pearl Clover award for 15 years as a 4-H leader in Monroe County. Margaret was an active member for many years at St. Michael Lutheran Church and the Sara Ruth women’s circle. She was a member of the Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority, receiving a 25-year service award for retired schoolteachers and a member of the Toledo Area Weaver’s Guild, 1985-1986. At home, Margaret enjoyed weaving rag rugs on her floor loom; scrapbooking and baking cookies for her grandchildren.
The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to all the caregivers who helped Margaret while she lived both in her home and at Kingston Memory Care, Sylvania, Ohio. Also thanks to Senior Independence Hospice of Toledo, Ohio, for their care, comfort, and support. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, June 8, at St. Michael Lutheran Church, Ottawa Lake, with Pastor Mark Gibbs, officiating. Family and friends may call at the Reeb Funeral Home, Sylvania, Ohio, Friday, June 7 from 4-9 p.m. and noon-1 p.m. at the church before the service. Interment will be at Whiteford Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Michael Lutheran Church or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.reebfuneralhome. com