Doris Ellen Koepke

Doris Ellen Koepke, a longtime Livonia resident, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. Born on November 18, 1929, to John and Clara (Guenther) Vonier, Doris lived a life defined by devotion to family, faith, kindness, and service to others.

Doris attended Wayne State University and worked as a bookkeeper for Sanders and later Lane Bryant in Detroit before marrying the love of her life, James William Koepke, on April 21, 1956. Their story began with a blind date that included an evening of bowling, the first chapter in a marriage that would span 56 years until James' passing in 2012. Together they built a life in Livonia, where Doris lived for nearly seven decades.

Above all else, Doris considered her family to be her greatest accomplishment. She is survived by her children, James Jr. (Patricia) Koepke, Carol (Craig) Koepke-Sopkowicz, and John Koepke; her grandchildren, Mandi (Ryan) Igna, James Koepke III, Matthew Koepke, Bradley Koepke, and Alexander Koepke; her great-grandchildren, Brady Igna and Parker Igna; and her sister-in-law, Chris Vonier of Alexandria, Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James William Koepke; her parents, John and Clara Vonier; and her brothers, John Vonier and Milton Vonier.

Doris was a caregiver in every sense of the word. She spent her life caring for those around her; first her children, then her parents, her grandchildren, and her beloved husband. Her family remembers her as a constant source of encouragement, someone who could always be counted on to show up, lend a hand, and cheer others on. Whether helping with school projects, driving to activities and sporting events, or simply being present during life's important moments, Doris demonstrated her love through unwavering support and selfless devotion.

Her life was not measured by accolades or grand accomplishments, but by the countless acts of kindness, sacrifice, and generosity she shared with others. She taught her family the importance of responsibility, faith, and caring for people regardless of circumstance. Those who knew her will remember her warm heart, steadfast presence, and deep commitment to the people she loved.

Doris was a very active member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church and found comfort and strength in her faith throughout her life. Her family takes comfort in knowing that same faith sustained her until the end.

A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, July 17, 2026, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 17810 Farmington Rd, Livonia, MI 48152. Doris’s family will receive visitors at the church on Friday from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am. A burial will follow at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Doris's memory to St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Livonia or the Macular Degeneration Association.