Uri Koppel, age 85, of St. Louis Park, MN passed away on March 10th, 2024 after a long battle with heart disease. He was preceded in death by his parents, Asher and Nechama Koppel; and sister, Yudit. Uri is survived by his wife of over 45 years, Carolyn; children, Talli, Aaron, Amy and Jared (Joy); grandchildren, Rayna, Elia, Darien, Ezra and Elliot; as well as his extraordinary group of friends and cousins.
Uri was born February 9th 1939 in Tel-Aviv, Israel. His parents fled Nazi Germany in 1933 and found refuge in the Land of Israel. He became a paratrooper in the IDF where he was injured. Uri came to New York to be close with his Aunts Elsie and Rosie Goldman. He studied mathematics at Yeshiva University of New York. Uri then continued his studies at Georgia State University to get his Masters degree in Hebrew/Judaica studies and Math education. Uri loved to play and watch chess, tennis, racquetball, table tennis, and soccer.
He met his future wife in Sarasota, FL where he was teaching. After receiving a job offer from Rabbi Avram Ettedgui, the young couple moved to Minnesota where they both pursued careers in Jewish education. He was a beloved educator and figure in the Jewish community. His dedication to teaching and loving nature touched the hearts of many. Uri was a family man devoted to his four children and his wife. He had a deep passion for Judaism and Israel. He will be missed by many and never forgotten.
His last words were “Passover is coming.” This year will be an extra special Passover as we celebrate Uri in peace and love and with this we will say: L’hitraot “until we see each other again.”
