Carolyn D. Koepke, 84, of Houston passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family Thursday, March 17, 2016. She was born March 15, 1932 in Springfield, Missouri to Bonnie and Lola Dysart. She is preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband Carlos Koepke. Carolyn is survived by her sons, Carl Koepke and wife June, Brent Koepke, Glen Koepke and her daughter, Michele Koepke; grandchildren, Katie Koepke, John Koepke and wife Libby, TJ Koepke and wife Amy, Samantha Lawrence and husband Bradley, and Bonnie Koepke; great grandchildren, Caden and Mason Lawrence.

Carolyn grew up in the Springfield, MO area, graduated from Springfield High School in 1950 and married Carlos in 1951. After marrying, they lived in St. Louis for many years where she was able to continue her friendship and, along with Carlos, share many more storied adventures with childhood friend/cousin/soul-friend Donna and her husband, Paul Gormly. Carolyn also shared many fun occasions with her dear sister-in-law, Betty Koepke, which sometimes involved "coffee cup beer" a little earlier in the day than generally acceptable. Carlos'' career moved the family from St. Louis to Arkansas to Houston in the early 1970''s, where the family remained for the rest of Carlos and Carolyn''s life. She missed Carlos deeply for all the years they were apart after his death in 1982.

A love for travel and learning about different people took her to Africa, Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales, Europe, Canada, and Mexico, as well as coast to coast of the United States. She loved the Ozarks, though, and considered herself an Ozark hillbilly all the years she lived in Texas. Always a woman of faith, Carolyn was active in Northwoods Presbyterian church in Houston for as long as she was able. Carolyn earned a Master''s degree in education and loved working as a teacher and diagnostician at Spring ISD, helping students with learning disabilities. She developed deep and lasting friendships with her colleagues there, especially Sally Reister her dear friend and other half of the duo known as "Ding and Dong".

She had many interests throughout her life and was an accomplished pianist and artist, as well as enjoying symphonies, theatre and reading. She loved spending time with family and friends, and frequently had get-togethers at her house or happy hour with her teacher friends. Family congregated at her house on holidays and just about any occasion that might warrant a party. Carolyn was a kind and gentle woman, bright, full of life, a good friend, a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and spoiled them as best she could.

Carolyn''s family wishes to extend their heartfelt and deep appreciation to the staff at Sunrise of Cinco Ranch, where Carolyn resided for the past 8 years. Their steadfast and loving care eased her through the difficult years of her illness and allowed her family to focus on spending quality time with her. The family also wants to thank A*Med hospice staff for their care and assistance over the last year and especially these last few days.

The Koepke family were present to receive friends, Sunday, March 20, 2016 from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Dettling Funeral Home, 14094 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079. The Funeral Service was commenced Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at 11:00 AM at Dettling Funeral Home. Graveside services for Mrs. Koepke will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2016 at 11:00 AM at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Springfield, MO. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions in Carolyn''s memory to the Alzheimer''s Association at www.alz.org