Hans Berthold Koepsel, 87, a proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away Wednesday, July 24, 2024. Hans was born September 5, 1936 in Jena, Germany to Berthold Koepsel and Lieselotte (Wolff) Koepsel.
At the age of twenty, Hans enlisted in the United States Army. He valued this service highly and attained the rank of Army Chief Warrant Officer 4. As part of this service, he served a tour in Korea and two tours during wartime in Vietnam before alternating between Fort Sill, OK and various locations in Germany. During his twenty-six years of service, Hans received various recognitions and medals before retiring in Lawton, OK in December, 1982.
Hans married Maria on October 10, 1962 in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Hans is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Maria; his three children: Eileen Joan Roberts, Lucy Ann Smith, and Laura Lynn Hendrickson Bush, married to Ralph; five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and a great granddog: Krystle Lyn Carter and husband David, great grandchildren Adalie and Willa; Amanda Heather Blenkinsop and great-granddog Winnie; Shawn Hans Roberts; LaDena Maria Pluchino and great-grandchildren Caroline, Dontae, and Ridley; and Justin Charles Mahley and spouse Danni; and a brother: Ulf Koepsel. Hans is preceded in death by his parents; Lieselotte Maria Neber, sister; and Jacob Nathaniel Mahley, grandson.
Hans was an honorable man who loved to spend his time enjoying his family. He loved entertaining and laughing with both his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He taught his three children, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren what dedication to family looks like and how to be generous, not only monetarily, but also with their time and unconditional support. He really did love his family and was incredibly devoted to them.
