William John Kopack

On January 5th, 2024, William John Kopack, affectionately known as Bill, passed away at the glorious age of 90. He is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine Kopack (87), doting daughter, Kimberly Kopack Opager (67) of Asheville NC; Brother John Kopack (87) and Sister In Law, Patty of Southampton, Pennsylvania; his Grandson Jason William Chicosky (46) and Granddaughter in Law April of Harvest, Alabama; and Granddaughter Mariah Opager of St. Louis, Missouri (32); three Great-Grandchildren Hartley, Lola and William; and four step Great-Grandchildren Tyler, Lilian, Carter, and Ava all of Harvest, Alabama; as well as a community of fellow woodworkers and pinochle players in the Asheville area. He was born December 15, 1933. in Bristol, Pennsylvania, relocating to the Blue Ridge mountains to retire in 1995.

Bill started his long career in the manufacturing industry where he developed a keen creativity through working with his hands in machining and eventually woodworking. At times he seemed to command nature itself, working steel into useful objects; transforming rocks and boulders into scenic gardens; and fashioning cherry, oak, walnut, and pine into magnificent treasures. 

He was a dutiful and stalwart husband and father, showing love by selflessly toiling away on projects that he knew would make all our lives better. He created toys, model machines, and all sorts of elegant household objects, each one more masterful than the last. No written description could capture the beauty, artistry, and craftsmanship he brought to each and every project. His vocation was such a deep calling that he continued to work until the age of 89 as the Wood Shop Supervisor/Instructor for the City of Asheville’s Harvest House Senior Center, helping others learn the art he loved so dearly. 

Our Husband, Father, and Poppy was one of the smartest people we knew. If he was not woodworking, he was playing card games with friends, watching sports (especially Duke basketball), putting together puzzles, looking for a new gadget online, or sharing a meal (and bowl of ice cream!) with his wife of 68 years. His loved ones will desperately miss his unmatched work ethic, never-ending sense of independence, and inspiring ability to accomplish whatever he set his mind to.

In lieu of a traditional service, we will have a Memorial Service on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 at the Clubhouse in the Cloisters at 4pm. We will serve his favorite foods: meatloaf, spaghetti and meatballs, his beloved pretzels and ice cream, apple pie and lemon meringue pie. Please RSVP by, copying and pasteing the following link into a browser: forms.gle/pG4RQmCSyQNKaDck8 or emailing emayoh91@gmail.com Cherished photos, stories and memories are welcomed, as we prepare keepsakes in memory of him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William John Kopack, please visit our floral store.