Wanda Ann Copple

Wanda Ann (Kopka) Copple passed away peacefully in the company of her loving family at her home in Citrus Springs, FL, on April 11, 2025, at the age of 68. She was born on Sept. 6, 1956, in New Castle, PA, to Veronika (Drapko) and Edmund J. Kopka. They were her tremendous and constant sources of love and support, which was especially returned to them by her in their times of home health care needs.

Wanda cherished memories of her parents and growing up with her brother in what she called a “perfect life” in a “truly wonderful neighborhood.” Relatives and friends often gathered in their home, and their Christian faith was experienced and nurtured in the Polish National Catholic Church.

Wanda graduated from New Castle High School in 1974. Having enjoyed playing sports, she considered becoming a Physical Education teacher. While tutoring at an elementary school, she realized a passion for elementary education. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in education in 1978 and then her Master of Education in 1981 at Slippery Rock State College.

In 1980 she married Donald A. Copple and in 1985 their first child, Stephanie, was born. Later that year, they decided to move to Florida to be near Wanda’s parents in Beverly Hills. In 1988 their daughter, Michelle, was born.

Wanda taught for seven years in the Blackhawk School District in Pennsylvania. For the next 33 years she taught for the Citrus County School District, mostly at the elementary and middle schools in Citrus Springs. Twice “Mrs. Copple” was awarded as Teacher of the Year. Her favorite lessons were about the Holocaust, women’s history and Black history, which she found were most impactful for reinforcing respect for others and critical thinking.

Witnessing the enlightenment of students drove her passion for teaching and she was deeply touched by students who reached out to her with gratitude, particularly as adults. Her mantra was “stay strong, tell the truth, and keep your faith,” which was influenced by the faith, integrity and hard work instilled in her by her parents and grandparents, Anna and Anthony Drapko.

Wanda’s greatest loves of all are her daughters and grandchildren. The holiday and birthday gatherings and family vacations were her favorite times, to which she put great effort. And every moment she spent alone with her grandchildren was a deeply precious time and blessing for each of them.

Surviving family members are: Husband, Donald; daughter Stephanie Cox and her husband, Steven; daughter, Michelle Copple; brother, Anthony D. Kopka; and grandchildren, Brielle and Colton Cox.

A private service will be held at Fero Memorial Gardens in Beverly Hills, FL. All expressions of sympathy are greatly appreciated by the family. For those who wish to make a memorial tribute, please consider: Women for Women International, The Southern Poverty Law Center, or Our Daily Bread Ministries.