Kathleen Mae Kopecky, 54, of Elkton, passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at home, surrounded by her loving family. Kathy was born on September 10, 1966 to Roger and Darlene (Otto) Bauer. She grew up on the family farm in Elkton, graduating from Elkton High School in 1985. Kathy joined the workforce, working first for Eaton Dakota, and then South Dakota State University. At SDSU, she worked in Custodial Services while also spending her evenings cooking dinner for a local farmer. Kathy was married to Steve Kopecky on March 28, 1992, in Elkton and they had two sons, Marcus and Jon. Kathy would also work for Twin City Fan and most recently, Royal Plastic, where she was employed until her cancer diagnosis. Kathy was a member of Our Lady of Good Council Catholic Church in Elkton. She loved the outdoors and could often be found tending to her garden, sitting by a fire, casting a line, or camping out. She collected salt and pepper shakers, enjoyed baking and cooking, and loved spending time with her family and her dogs. Kathy will be remembered for her strength, optimism, and gigantic love for her family.

Kathy is survived be her husband, Steve Kopecky, Elkton; her sons, Marcus and Jon Kopecky, both of Elkton; her brothers: Jim (Tammie) Bauer, Tim (Toni) Bauer, and Dave (Kris) Bauer, all of Elkton; her mother-in-law, Elaine Kopecky, Brookings; her dogs, Sarah and Conrad; and many other extended relatives and friends. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and Darlene;  her sister, Peggy Houselog; and her father-in-law, Stanley Kopecky.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at Our Lady of Good Council Catholic Church, Elkton with burial to follow at Fairlawn Cemetery, Aurora. Visitation will also take place at Our Lady of Good Council Catholic Church from 5:00-7:00 pm on Monday, March 8, 2021 with a scripture service to follow.