Sylvia Markowitz Koepke

Sylvia Markowitz Koepke, 90, Emporia, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at the Emporia Presbyterian Manor.

Sylvia Markowitz was born in Emporia, Kansas on November 8, 1935, the daughter of Leo and Gertrude (Lenninger) Markowitz. She married Charles R. “Dick” Koepke in Emporia on April 27, 1963. He died April 27, 2011. Sylvia is survived by nieces; Lea Markowitz Ringler, Dana Markowitz, both of Emporia, Jan Markowitz Darting, Baldwin City, Kansas, and Denise Dancer Osgood, Overland Park, Kansas, and nephew; Robert Breeze, Cherry Hills, Colorado. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother; LaMar Markowitz, sister; Kay Dancer, and husband, Dick.

She was a member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Emporia, the Trend Study Club and had been active in PEO.

The Koepkes lived in California until returning to Emporia in 2008. Dick was an Air Force pilot and they also had lived in Belgium when he was stationed there. In Merced, California, Sylvia was a member of several organizations. She was an avid golfer and gardener.

Cremation in planned. A graveside committal service will be held at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Cemetery, Emporia on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 10:00 A.M.

Memorials have been established with the Emporia Public Library and Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church for the expansion of the cemetery. Contributions may be sent to Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, PO Box #175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.