Obituary: Karel Kwass Copenhaver

Karel Kwass Copenhaver, 82, died peacefully, surrounded by her children and loved ones, on Oct. 30, in Augusta, Ga. after a courageous battle with cancer.

Karel was born on May 23, 1939, in Bluefield, W. Va. She was one of three children of Sidney and Edna Kwass. Karel attended Agnes Scott College, and subsequently married and settled in Augusta.

Karel became a staple of the community over the last 60 years. She remained an active member of the Augusta community until her final days. Karel served on multiple boards over the years, including the new Augusta Jewish Museum, Medical Association of Georgia, Augusta Symphony Guild, United Way and Easter Seals. She was a fixture of the CCI Temple Sisterhood and in 1983 was chosen as “Woman of the Year.” Karel was a Lifetime Member of Hadassah and active within her local chapter. She loved attending Sabbath services and most recently played an integral part in the fundraising efforts for the new Augusta Jewish Museum. She led by example, both in Augusta and her “summer camp” in Highlands, N. C.

Karel was passionate about her family and extended family. She is survived by her 3 children: Eve Turner, Brian Estroff (Heidi Estroff), Eric (Dianne) Estroff; 7 grandchildren: Rachel (Andrew) Orenberg, Josh (Melanie) Turner, Jake Estroff, Ben Estroff, Shelby Estroff, Noah Estroff, Sydney Estroff; 2 great grandchildren: Maya Orenberg and Micah Turner; her brother, Robert Kwass; her sister, Kathy (Charles) Gross; and many children and grandchildren by marriage.

The memorial service can be viewed via the following link: www.youtu.be/3MFGvhzYBPk

To express condolences, please visit www.thomaspoteet.com/obituaries/Karel-Copenhaver/

The family would like to acknowledge the fantastic support of the Augusta University medical staff, especially Dr. Sharad Ghamande and Katie Dorr for their incredible dedication over the last few years. Donations in Karel’s honor can be made to the Augusta Jewish Museum, American Cancer Society (Gynecological Division), or Highlands Performing Arts Center.

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