Karl A. Copenhafer, 66

Karl Allen Copenhafer, 66, husband of Nancy (Suloman) Copenhafer of Boyertown, PA died by suicide at his home on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, after a long battle with the unbearable pain of depression. He was born on March 5, 1959 - son of Robert Copenhafer, Sr and Ruth (Stauffer) Copenhafer and grew up in Royersford, PA.

After graduating from high school in 1977 and Drexel University in 1981, Karl worked as an engineer for 43 years - a part of his life he took a tremendous amount of pride in. He enjoyed baseball, exercising, skiing, watching Philadelphia sports, spending time with his grandson Hayden, and - in more recent years - the quality time he spent with his loving wife in Aruba. He also had a knack for being able to talk to anyone and was always eager to listen to people’s life stories. Spending time with his family was one of the most important parts of his life, and he always looked forward to family gatherings.

He will be remembered by those who knew him as a generous, selfless & caring man - someone who was always willing to help or mentor a family member or friend. He was viewed as a second father by many of his family members. He spent a great deal of time loving & caring for his parents during their final years, which is a testament to his dedication to the people he loved.

Karl is survived by his loving wife Nancy (Suloman) Copenhafer of Boyertown, PA. They would be celebrating 42 years of marriage in June. Karl is also survived by his son Jordan (Alicia) Copenhafer of Gilbertsville, PA; daughter Kelsey (Brock) Hallman of Gilbertsville, PA; grandson Hayden Hallman; brother Robert, Jr (Gayla) Copenhafer of Colorado Springs, CO; sisters Patricia Taubler of Oceanside, CA and Donna Copenhafer of Royersford, PA. He is predeceased by his parents and brother-in-law Thomas Taubler.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at New Ridge Fellowship (2211 Swamp Pike, Gilbertsville, PA 19525). Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service from 9:30am-11:00am. His celebration of life will continue immediately following the service with a luncheon at New Ridge North Campus (3065 North Charlotte Street, Gilbertsville, PA 19525).

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in memory of Karl Copenhafer to New Ridge Fellowship or to the Bigger Than The Trail Foundation to support others who are struggling with mental illness at (https://www.flipcause.com/secure/fundraiser/MjI2MzMx/104207).

Add My Condolences

So sorry to hear of the struggles that Karl dealt with. May you find peace in remembering the happy times as you mourn the loss of your husband and father. 🧓

~ Peter & Cindy Iannelli
5/27/2025 6:56:03 PM

Kelsey, I am so saddened to hear about the loss of your father. May God grant you and your family and all of your dad's loved one's comfort, strength, healing, peace, and all of the support you need.

~ Amber Johnson
5/19/2025 7:42:56 PM

Nancy, Jordan, Kelsey,
Kim and I learned of Carl passing from Stef. We wish you strength through this difficult time and you are in our prayers. I do miss all those years working on the farm, some of which were with Jordan, plus talking to you in the store . We hope to see you again someday. Ken and Kim

~ Ken & Kim Duelley Seymour, TN
5/18/2025 7:15:43 AM

Dear Nancy & family – We haven’t seen you or conversed for quite some time and we’re shocked and saddened to hear about Karl’s passing. We believe we first met when our sons played little league baseball together at Pine Forge over 30+ years ago and Karl was always very cordial and humble. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. GOD Bless.....Jim & Debbie Brumbach

~ Jim & Debbie Brumbach Douglassville, PA
5/15/2025 1:55:48 PM

Nancy and family, we are so sorry to hear the passing of Karl! We are keeping you and your family in our prayers! Love , The Barnetts

~ Julie Barnett
5/14/2025 8:43:04 PM

My heart goes to you and your family. I went to school with Karl from K-12. He was smart, thoughtful and gifted athletically. He was the first boy to ask me to dance in 7th grade. May you find peace and comfort in loving memories.

~ Donna Jones
5/14/2025 7:08:25 PM

I am totally shocked and horrified to read this. Sadly, i don't believe in prayer otherwise I would offer you some. All I can say is you are going to go on one crazy emotional roller coaster ride so please be very very kind to yourself and realize that is a process and not directed at you. I wish you strength and peace.

~ Anne middleton Cape May, NJ
5/14/2025 6:38:00 PM

I'm so sorry to hear of Karl's passing. I remember him as a kind and funny young man when we were in high school. My sincere condolences to his family.

~ Shirley LeClerc
5/14/2025 3:33:00 PM

So sorry for you Nancy and your family for, Karl will be in you memories and your heart!!! Im sending hugs and prayers ❤️ unfortunately will not be able to attend. I will pray for everyone 🙏🏼

~ Judy Kuterbach
5/14/2025 3:05:59 PM

My heart was broken when I received word of Karl's passing. Your family has been in my thoughts and prayers. I'm glad we will get the opportunity to take time to celebrate his life on May 28th at New Ridge Fellowship. Reach out to us so that we may know how to come alongside of you (in addition to prayers). God bless!

~ Pastor Ricky Ayala
5/14/2025 12:13:08 PM

A lovely tribute to a great father, son, husband, brother. He will be missed tremendously. Our hearts will be with you all next week. With love, Lori & Ken

~ Lori & Ken Taylor Solana Beach, CA
5/14/2025 11:44:40 AM