Susan H. (Appletree) Koeppel

Susan Koeppel passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, surrounded by loved ones and a date that is poignantly marked by her late daughter, Robin Koeppel-Karofsky’s birthday.

Susan Appletree Koeppel was born in Brooklyn, New York, on August 21, 1941. Susan’s life was defined by a love of learning, teaching, and community. After moving to West Hartford, Connecticut with her husband Howard Koeppel, she earned her bachelor's degree in education from the University of Hartford. Susan and Howard raised their three beautiful children in West Hartford, CT while vacationing in York, Maine during the summers. By the mid-1970s, they relocated to York, Maine — a place she would call home for the rest of her life.

Later on, Susan pursued her passion for special education by earning her master’s degree from the University of New Hampshire while teaching at York Village Elementary School. Her dedication to her students and their growth left a lasting impact on generations of children and families.

Upon her retirement, Susan channeled her passion for exploring antiques and collectibles with the same energy and curiosity she brought to her teaching.

Susan Koeppel, also known as "G’MA" by her family and friends will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, wisdom and the loving family she leaves behind. G’MA loved hosting family at the Maine house with large lobster & steamer cookouts while routinely making her favorite "buttered noodles" to accompany family meals during the Summer. 

She leaves behind her husband of 65 years Howard Koeppel, children and grandchildren — Jody Flaxman, Seth Koeppel and his wife Stacy Koeppel, and was predeceased by her beloved daughter Robin Koeppel-Karofsky. She has 5 "handsome grandsons" as she would put it; Sam Flaxman, AJ Karofsky, Ross Flaxman, Cole Koeppel, and Jake Koeppel — who brought her endless pride and joy.

She will be dearly missed!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her name.

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