Donald M. Koperwhats, devout Catholic
Donald M. Koperwhats, 82, of Millsboro, formerly of Fords, N.J., passed away Friday, Feb. 1, 2019, at Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, Pa.
He was born in Perth Amboy, N.J., July 3, 1936, son of the late Michael Koperwhats and the late Anna (Yadlouski) Koperwhats. Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1955-59.
Don retired as a chemical operator. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Bishop James C. Burke Council 11285, a 4th degree Knight with Father Capodanno Assembly 2413, and a head usher at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church in Millsboro. Don was a charter member of the Neighborhood Watch for Captains Grant community and a member of American Legion Post 28 in Millsboro.
He enjoyed watching the Shorebirds baseball team and NASCAR. Don also enjoyed living near the water, as he was an avid fisherman, and enjoyed boating and crabbing.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Rosemary Koperwhats in 2016; an infant daughter, Terri Lynn Marie Koperwhats; a grandson, Gary Michael Koperwhats Jr.; and a brother, Michael Allen Koperwhats. Don is survived by two children, Gary Michael Koperwhats and his wife Lisa of Bridgeville, and Donna Lynn Marie Koperwhats and her partner Dawn Ferro of Freehold, N.J.; five grandchildren, Rebecca, Kyle, Noah, Joshua and Eli; four stepgrandchildren, Nicole, Timothy, Sara and Andrew; and eight great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 6, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 6, at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church, 30839 Mt. Joy Road, Millsboro. Interment will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Donald’s name to St. Michael the Archangel/Mary Mother of Peace Parish, 202 Edward St., Georgetown, DE 19947.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
