Kathy (Copley) & Michael Williams

Kathy was born September 29, 1973, in Ishpeming, to Lawrence J. ‘Jim’ and Katherine B. ‘Honey’ (Laveau) Copley and graduated from Gwinn High School, Class of 1991. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Michigan University and was employed as a second-grade teacher for Sault Ste. Marie Area Public Schools and most recently as a special education teacher at JKL Bahweting Anishianaabe School. She was a selfless volunteer for the schools and also the local community, having coached basketball, cheerleading and volunteered for the Relay of Life among other organizations.

Michael was born November 14, 1970, in Pontiac, to David R. Williams and Tina M. Chiapelli. He proudly served in the Michigan National Guard and was called into active duty serving in the United States Army in Kuwait and Iraq, being honorably discharged in 2006. Michael was employed as a machinist for Superior Fabrication Company in Kincheloe.

Kathy and Michael were avid bowlers, and during the summer, they enjoyed golfing at Tanglewood Marsh in the Sault. Most important to them was spending time with their family.

Surviving are their three children: Joseph, Christopher and Anastasia Williams. Kathy is also survived by her father, Jim; ten brothers and sisters: Mary (Dave) Hermann, Shirley (Bill) Fountain, Barbara (Bruce) Copley-Gierke, Tina (Dan) Locke, Nancy (Gary) Nellist, Lawrence (Misi) Copley, Jr., Martha (Richard) Diercks, Rita (Robert) Savola, Theresa (Jeffrey) Andrews and David (Patti) Copley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Michael is also survived by his mother, Tina; step-mother, Denajo Williams; brother, David Williams; three sisters: Laura, Theresa and Michelle; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Kathy was preceded in death by her mother, and Michael was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Tony.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 noon on Friday, January 17th, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Gwinn, with Rev. Allen Mott officiating.

The families will greet relatives and friends from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass at 12:00 Noon at the church on Friday, and also at a luncheon in the church hall following Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in their memory to: Lincoln Elementary School, C/O Carol McKay, Director of Homeless Programs, 810 5th Ave E, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

Kathy and Michael’s memorial page may be viewed at koskey funeralhome.com