July 25, 1932 – January 26, 2024
Helen was born in Fort Collins, Colorado to Ann and Derris Murphy and was one of seven children, in order of birth Buddy Derris, Marilyn, Robert, Helen, Yvonne (Bonnie), Janet, and Richard. During World War II their father moved the family to Richland, Washington where he had obtained a job at the Hanford Project.
After high school in Richland, Helen attended Marylhurst College in Lake Oswego, Oregon. While there she met Henry (Hank) Firchau, and they married and had two children, Michael and Karen. A few years later Hank was killed in a tragic crash while flying his own plane.
Helen then moved her family to Reedsport, Oregon, During her time in Reedsport. Helen met Bruce Koppe. They decided to marry and moved to Washington, D.C. where Bruce was attending law school. The family then moved to the San Francisco area. While there Anne and Carolyn were born and Helen became very active in the International Hospitality Center and enjoyed playing tennis and bridge.
In the 1980’s Helen and family made a final move to the Seattle area. Helen was a great homemaker and hostess. She also served as President and Board Member of Central Park Tennis Club, and co-chaired the Seattle Cancer Ball. She enjoyed her family, entertaining, travel, boating in the San Juan Islands, needlepoint and mah jongg.
She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Bruce Koppe, her 4 children and 4 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers Helen has requested donations be made to , Colorado where her mother and grandmother attended mass.
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