Obituary of Mary Katherine Opoien

Mary Katherine Opoien, (85) passed away September 9, 2023, in Elmira, Oregon. She was born December 30, 1937, in Gilroy, California, daughter of Robert and Marie (Josephine) Howes. She was raised on a ranch and the oldest of 7 (siblings - Gerrie, Jo-Ann, Mickie, Bobby, Peggy, and Chrissy). She attended catholic schools up until she attended San Jose beauty college.

Mary married Donald Opoien on February 23, 1958, who predeceased her September 2019, after a loving marriage of more than 61 years, and into whose arms she now returns. Mary raised 5 children in San Jose, California sons Chris (Griselda), Clint (Kim), and daughters JoAnn (predeceased 2006) (Andy), Julie (Lynn- predeceased 2022), Erin (Kenny). She loved her grandchildren Patrick (Jennifer), Steven (Sasha), Soraya, great grandchildren, Logan, and Autumn.

She was an avid gardener and loved flowers, Mary worked in the haircare business for several years until she and Don Retired to Oregon. She was very active in her spiritual communities, whom she loved dearly and volunteered in many capacities. She was selfless and a champion for the less fortunate her entire life. She was loved by everybody who came across her path and will be sorely missed by all.

Services will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, Veneta, Oregon, Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 1:00 p.m.