ANGELINE A. “ANGIE” KOPKA

October 28, 2016
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    Angeline A. “Angie” Kopka, 100, a well-known Nashua business woman and legislator, passed away peacefully at her home, Friday morning, October 28, 2016.

Angie was the wife of the late John S. Kopka, Jr.

    One of nine children, Mrs. Kopka was born in Nashua on April 18, 1916 to the late Donat and Dora (Golden) Landry. She was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1933 and the former Nashua Business College.

   A longtime Nashua realtor, Angie founded Kopka Real Estate in 1953 and was instrumental in both residential and commercial real estate development in Nashua. She was active in numerous Nashua organizations and a beloved member of the community. Angeline was a former member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, elected to 5 terms until her retirement at age 98. She achieved many accolades during her years in real estate. Two were 1974 National President of the Women’s Council of Realtors and Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Realtors and was the oldest active member in the House of Representatives nationwide.

   Angie was predeceased by her husband John, who passed away September 6, 2009. They were married in 1935 and shared 74 years together.

   Members of her family include her son and daughter-in-law, John S. III and Maggie Kopka of Hampton, NH; her daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Merrill Geno of Brookline, NH; seven grandchildren, Susan Flynn, Michael G. Kopka, Michael J. Kopka, Jennifer O’Blenis, Caleb Geno, Joshua Geno and Tamarra Geno; twelve great-grandchildren; two sisters, Theresa Morin and her husband Harold of Nashua and Josephine Hatch of Pembroke, MA; also many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to her husband and parents, Angie was predeceased by her brothers, Andrew, Leo, Thomas and Wilfred Landry; and her sisters, Persis Lamonday and Marjorie Pinette.

   Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, November 4th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church. Interment will be private. Donations may be made in her memory to Gateway Adult Day Services Program, 200 Derry Road, Hudson, NH 03051 http://www.gatewayscs.org/ . Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneralservice.com                             

41 Comments on ANGELINE A. “ANGIE” KOPKA

Pam Sloope said : Guest Report Mar 29, 2017 at 4:21 PM

Oh my goodness I just saw this doing some research. Jan I am so saddened by Angies death. May God bless you and your family.

Bonnie Guevin said : Guest Report Nov 08, 2016 at 3:14 PM

Jan and Jack and Family, So sad Angie has passed, but know she was the kind of spirit that will live on in many hearts. She was passionate about her profession and I am so blessed to have known her and been able to spend great quality time with her. Sending prayers and hugs to all of you during this difficult time. Her quick wit and beautiful smile will be with me forever. RIP dear Angie

John Duffy said : Guest Report Nov 07, 2016 at 10:41 AM

Janice and Jack, I am so sorry to have been away at this time, I learned so much from your mother in a career that has lasted me my whole life. I learned the importance of being a Realtor and the difference it has made for all of us. She will always be my favorite Polka partner, May she rest in peace.

Leslie Riemitis said : Guest Report Nov 04, 2016 at 8:29 AM

As a fellow REALTOR, Angie was a great example and had a great work ethic. She was a caring person to all and was always smiling with an infectious positive attitude. I am honored to have known her. She was well loved and will be sadly missed.

Gail Morrison said : Guest Report Nov 04, 2016 at 12:20 AM

I am sorry to learn of Angie Kopka's passing. I also served with this remarkable woman in our state legislature and remember her as the friendliest person I recall meeting in Concord. She loved us all.

Brooke Johnson said : Guest Report Nov 03, 2016 at 10:55 PM

I'm so sad to hear of Angie's passing - I had the pleasure of meeting her while she had a brief stay at Fairview nursing home. Angie had a smile that would light up any room, I enjoyed talking with her and joking with her as well. She would hold my hand when she greeted me and give me a kiss on the hand as well. Melted my heart. She had the most loving vibe when you were in her presence. She truly touched my heart and will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to her family. oxoxo

Rod Clermont said : Guest Report Nov 03, 2016 at 3:05 PM

My condolences to the whole family, Angie was truly an amazing person. The thing that I miss most is that incredible infectious laugh. You always knew when she was in the room....... Her graciousness and caring were from a time when a lady was a lady..... She got thing done for sure. She'll get thing done in heaven for sure.....

Tom Stawasz said : Guest Report Nov 03, 2016 at 2:13 PM

Angie was always involved in the details. No one else served as a Director for Life as Angie did for her Board of Realtors in Nashua. Her impact was national in scope and awesome in it's breadth she will be missed but not forgotten. A true pioneer.

Mary Weaver Eldredge said : Guest Report Nov 03, 2016 at 12:46 PM

Love and condolence to the Kopka family. Angie was one amazing lady, intelligent and kind. When I first met her I was impressed by her strong presence combined with a warm and inviting smile. I was there to celebrate her 90th birthday and Angie did make 90 look like the new 60! I so appreciated her genuine interest in others, and the valuable advice she offered wanting the best for you. She was an inspiring model in the community, business and politics. What a wonderful long life and a gift to those around her! Angie will be remembered fondly.

Barbara Dumont said : Guest Report Nov 03, 2016 at 10:24 AM

Angie was a spitfire, one whom we all admired and loved. I remember riding with her and Gail Athais in a gondola in Las Vegas and the troubador singing to her. Her smile was like a beam of light. She truly loved her business and there was nothing she was afraid of. If only we could have just a little of her service comittment, our world would be a better place. My condolences to her family. She will be missed by all of us who had the opportunity to know her. Rest, Angie, you've given so much to so many. God Bless you.

RICHARD ROY said : Guest Report Nov 03, 2016 at 6:36 AM

Jack, so sorry to hear of Angies' passing. Met her in the mid 1960s when I first became a Realtor. She was an awful lot of help in my early days in Real Estate. An inspiration even back then.

Shirley Desmarais Formerly Bridal consultant (Shirley"s Bridal Shoppe Londonderry,N.H.) said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 10:29 PM

Dear Janice, My heart goes out to you about the departure of your Mother Angie. I met your mother at a very happy time for both of you. I felt the bond between you when I helped enhance your day by adorning you with your wedding attire. I always remember her for being so gracious and caring. Hoping this brings back a happy time I shared with you and your Mom. My prayers are with you and your Brother.

Brenda Douglas said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 9:43 PM

Angie was such an inspiration to everyone. She was admired for her dedication to the community in so many roles, and how involved she was with the Realtor associations in New Hampshire. I will miss her smile. Sympathies to Janice and her family,

Hon. Jill Shaffer Hammond said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 9:36 PM

For several terms I had the great pleasure to serve on the Commerce and Consumer Affairs committee of the NH House with Angie as my "seat partner". My first term she helped teach me the ropes. Later years, I helped get her lunch. Always great fun to be with. Anytime we went from the committee room to the cafeteria or to Reps' Hall, you could count on it taking two to three times longer with Angie -- she knew EVERYBODY and loved to chat with all of them. Loved and miss her so much.

Gladys Johnsen said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 8:19 PM

I enjoyed this lady so much. She sat in front of me during the 2012-2013 term; I loved her presence so much. She served our House of Representatives so well.

Carolyn Beaudet Boucher said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 6:11 PM

Dear Jack and Janice, my sincerest condolences to you and your families on the loss of your precious mother. She was more than an acquaintance, more than a friend, more than a colleague, to me, she was family. She gave me my start in real estate in 1971 but more than that, she gave me my life. She taught me how to pick myself up and move on. She encouraged me to keep learning. She made it possible for me to provide for my children and to live my life with dignity, respect and perseverance. I loved Angie all these years and there will be a part of my heart missing until we meet again in heaven. My life has been so much the better because of Angie. All my love, Carolyn

Maurice A. Couture said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 6:07 PM

My heartfelt sympathy goes out, at this time of sorrow, to Angie’s family for their immeasurable loss. Angie was my boss, my mentor, my friend and my role model. God has called her to receive her eternal reward in heaven.

Sue Henry said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 5:50 PM

Angie was the absolute BEST female mentor on the planet. She gave much more than she received and reveled in our success. So proud to have known you, dear one. I'm sure they are selling plots in heaven so you'll be right at home. No sense asking you to rest in peace... just not your style. Much love to you and your family.

Linda Locke, former CEO for the Capital Region Board of REALTORS said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 5:23 PM

My dear friend Angie, your bright light has not gone out, it has merely moved from earth to the heavens. There you are now watching over all of us, making sure that we continue to behave and make you proud. I had the honor of knowing you for 27 years and will always remember your kindness to everyone, no matter what their status. My condolences to your family and friends - you will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing you.

Tess & Bill said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 5:06 PM

Jack and Janice: Our prayers for the two of you and Aunt Angie. Our life has been better because of her. God Bless her.

Senator Lou D'Allesandro said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 3:32 PM

Angie was a wonderful lady and a dear friend. Her help in my early campaigns was very beneficial to my being elected. Her work for women's rights and their place in the business world was instrumental in moving this process forward. She was a hard charger, a person never to be denied and a credit to her family and friends. Everyone will miss her smile and enthusiasm.

Sally Pratt said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 2:56 PM

What a fine lady she was. I was fortunate to have known her for over 40 years. .I was there photographing her when she went parasailing on a dare from Bob Martel. I remember her 75th birthday celebration when she said why should I retire I am doing what I love now. In later years we used to see each other at legislative functions as my late husband was in the House during part of the time Angie served . So sorry for your loss. Sally Pratt Lancaster

Cathy B said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 1:48 PM

My deepest heartfelt sympathies go out to the family. I met Angie in 1982, while I was bartending. She inspired me to get my real estate license. She was the first business woman I met who empowered other women. She was truly ahead of her time and one of the most inspirational amazing women I have had the honor to meet.

Ursula Gordon said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 1:01 PM

A legend passes! Truly a great lady who is remembered by all in the Real Estate Industry as an outstanding example.

Bronwen Pritchard said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 12:44 PM

My condolences to Angie's whole family, all who loved her dearly; I met Angie in 1970 when she was the only Realtor in Nashua, along with Marietta Vore, who sold me my home that year; Though I didn't see her often, somehow she remembered a face and a time, and full of wit, and one of the sweetest ladies at the forefront of Real Estate in this State; She was active, and positive, kind and involved!! She was politically involved, loved being a State Rep. What a reputation she has built for herself. We will miss her very much. She was a great lady, admired and loved by all who knew her.

Bronwen Pritchard said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 12:44 PM

My condolences to Angie's whole family, all who loved her dearly; I met Angie in 1970 when she was the only Realtor in Nashua, along with Marietta Vore, who sold me my home that year; Though I didn't see her often, somehow she remembered a face and a time, and full of wit, and one of the sweetest ladies at the forefront of Real Estate in this State; She was active, and positive, kind and involved!! She was politically involved, loved being a State Rep. What a reputation she has built for herself. We will miss her very much. She was a great lady, admired and loved by all who knew her.

Jade lamonday-Marco said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 12:34 PM

So sorry to hear about aunt Angie, she was a great lady and will be greatly Missed. Always the life of the party. She was a great inspiration for Women, a pioneer.

John B Hunt said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 12:19 PM

Angie was an amazing person and someone I had greatest respect for, she will always be remembered by the NH House of Representative's Commerce and Consumer Affairs committee which she served on for her 10 years in the legislature.

June Branscom said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 12:12 PM

Angie will be missed as a role model for women and a friend to me. Angie was National President of Women's Council of REALTORS in 1977. She spoke and attended many local and national Women's Council Events. My favorite memory of Angie was riding through the streets of San Diego with Maxine Goodhue in a carriage pulled by a bicyclist. She was and always will be an inspiration to me. Not sure the angels in heaven are ready for Angie's energy, but I know they will enjoy having her in the flock.

Ann Ackerman said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 12:09 PM

RIP Angie. Always smiling, positive, and gracious. Lovely person.

Debora Pignatelli said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 11:08 AM

Rest in peace, friend. Many do not know this, but I interviewed with Angie when I got my real Estate license in 1973. She told me then that she "likes strong women." And, she was one, that's for sure! I will miss celebrating all your milestones with you, Angie. Nashua has lost a special person. Condolences to your family and many friends.

Hon. Catriona Beck said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 10:32 AM

I had the privilege to serve with Angie in the NH House between 2006-2010. She was a remarkable very special lady and a treasure who gave so willingly of her time and energy to help better the lives of the people of NH. Peace to you now out in the universe Angie. Sincere condolences

Hon. Efstathia C. Booras said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 9:54 AM

My sincere condolences for your loss of the very special Angie. Kopka. We will miss your beautiful smile Angie. Thank you for all you've taught us and we will lead by your example as a successful business woman, friend and Legislator. Rest in Peace my friend, may your memory be eternal.

Beverly Hill said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 9:00 AM

Angie was a "one of a kind" lady and someone I enjoyed conversing with whenever I ran into her. She's a true inspiration to all and she'll be missed by so many who cherished her wit and humor. She lived a great life and her family is blessed to have had her in their lives for so long.

Diane Sheehan, former Alderman At-Large, Nashua said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 7:18 AM

Angie smashed professional, and political ceilings for women, in Nashua, and our state. Her warm sparkle lit the room. I'm sorry I can't be there to pay my respects. My deepest condolences to her family.

Suzanne Harvey said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 6:58 AM

My prayers for Angie and her family. She was a wonderful model for so many of us who knew her. Her perseverance, her warmth, her energy, and her heart will be remembered by all the people whose lives she touched. Thank you, Angie, for your service to our community and our state.

Hon. Jan Schmidt said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 6:52 AM

While campaigning for the House with Angie as a running mate, I heard over and over again that she had sold these families their first home here in Nashua. She was always interested and pleasant and you couldn't help but love her as she always had this sparkle that just made you smile. I feel so very honored to have known her.

Ben Clemons, Alderman, Ward 6 Nashua said : Guest Report Nov 02, 2016 at 1:41 AM

Very sorry to hear about the loss of my favorite Nashua Democrat. Angie was an inspirational person to me, and her love for people and her community was unmatched. She will be missed.

Hon. Mariellen J. MacKay said : Guest Report Nov 01, 2016 at 11:00 PM

My thoughts and prayers go out to Angie's family. Angie and I served in the Legislature together and I truly admired and loved this witty, warm and charming woman. Her laughter and the joy she took in life will stay with me always. I was lucky enough to drive her in the Memorial Day Parade and watch as she enjoyed the people of Nashua cheering for her and clapping for her. She shared her positivity with everyone and we all benefited from her experience and her knowledge. She took many of us under her wing and we all took her into our hearts. Rest in Peace Angie. You will be missed. Heaven has gained a beautiful Angel!

Hon. Linda Harriott-Gathright said : Guest Report Nov 01, 2016 at 10:35 PM

My deepest condolences to the immediate family and the family of friends Angie has impacted for many years. I met Angie many years ago, however I did not get to know and appreciate her until 2009. We lived near one another and at times I would pick her up or take her home after our monthly Dems meeting. We both ran for the NH Legislature for wards 5, 8 & 9, prior to the redistricting of our wards in 2010. It was my first run as a state representative and we stood together at the polls. Angie of course walked around, smiled and spoke to everyone. She definitely was a jewel and her conversations were priceless. Rest in peace Angie, may heaven smile upon you. You are truly missed.

Sonia Prince said : Guest Report Nov 01, 2016 at 10:08 PM

So sorry for your loss. I met Angie in 2008 when I was organizing events for the Nashua Democrats. Sweetest lady I had ever met. Next election, I remember members saying no one would ever run against her because they all respected her too much. At the polls she would sit in her chair and countless voters would stop and tell her how much they loved her as their state representative. I read about her younger years and was amazed at all her accomplishments. She will be missed.

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