George Ivan Koepp
CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP – George Ivan Koepp, age 68, of Portage, passed away on November 14th at home, with his family by his side.
George was born on April 25, 1955, to Donald and Carolyn Koepp. He attended UW-River Falls where he met his wife, Polly, in the marching band. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and later completed a Master of Education and Professional Development from UW-LaCrosse.
George taught high school agriculture in Poynette then later Baraboo for 27 years, also serving as the FFA Advisor. He was passionate about the importance of agriculture in all aspects of life and especially enjoyed mentoring and developing young leaders. He finished his teaching career working for Columbia County and UW-Extension as the county Agricultural Agent. George also officiated baseball and volleyball for many years with his lifelong friend and officiating partner, Steve “Rube” Rohrbeck.
George was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Portage where he faithfully served on the Executive Committee. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
George is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Polly; children, Sarah (John) McLauchlin, Dave (Stephanie) Koepp, and Leah (Nick) Winecke; grandchildren, Carter and Kate McLauchlin, Jacob, Juliana and Jace Koepp, and Addison and Harper Winecke; mother, Carolyn Koepp; brother Robert Koepp; and sisters, Margaret Overby and Beverly Livingston. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Koepp.
The family will greet friends at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 850 Armstrong Street in Portage, on Sunday, November 19, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Monday, November 20, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. A service will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of life luncheon at the church.
In memoriam, donations can be made to St. John's Lutheran Church or sent to the family to be used to establish an agricultural scholarship in George's memory.
The family would like to thank Reverend Greg Hovland, the staff at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, SSM Health in Baraboo, and Agrace Hospice.
Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.
