Martin Koppes passed away peacefully on September 6th, 2016. He was born into a large family in the Netherlands. Orphaned at a young age he struggled to survive as a teenage farmer through World War 2. Seeking a better life he came to Canada in 1951, and his life was forever changed. After farming, house building, and lumber grading on Vancouver Island, he ended up moving to Kamloops with his young family in the 1960s. He would work happily for Canada Post, being promoted to Post Master in Logan Lake and then in Chase, picking up accolades along the way. Martin knew everyone - if he forgot your name he knew your box number, and was a warm smile waiting when you needed anything. He was a man of quiet resolve; busy with faith, family, friends and a little fishing. He lived a life of service and was always helping or organizing. His passion for the church and the Knights of Columbus kept him healthy and happy. He retired in 1993, and then village politics became a new pursuit. Martin was elected and served as a Councillor and then as Mayor of Chase for a combined nine years. His wife Tilly, of 56 years, and 3 children: John, Sarah, and Michael, and 5 grandchildren, had many great times together. A few years ago, he and Tilly moved to Chartwell Ridgepoint in Kamloops where a new family of friends was waiting. He loved every minute of it there - especially the cribbage games. Martin had time to reflect with family and friends in the last stages of his life with nothing being left unsaid. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home in Kamloops. Special thanks to the kind, caring staff and volunteers who assisted Martin and his family with his final journey. A Church Service will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 17, 2016 in the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1185 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC followed by a luncheon provided by the Knights of Columbus. The family of Martin Koppes wish to thank everyone for their condolences.