Natalie Ann King

Natalie Ann Koppenhafer King, 87, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, at Dupont Hospital, Fort Wayne. Natalie was born July 13, 1937, in Sandusky, Ohio to the late Albert J. Koppenhafer and Mildred A. Hendrickson Koppenhafer. She grew up in Bowling Green, Ohio where she married her high school sweetheart, Rodney King on June 26, 1959. She was a graduate of Purdue University with a master's degree from Indiana University. Natalie was an elementary school teacher for EACS retiring in 1997. Natalie was a strong supporter of the Purdue Music Organization, frequently attending their events. She also participated in international travel with the Purdue Varsity Glee Club, the Purduettes, and Purdue Bells. Traveling was a passion of Natalie's. If she saw a picture of something she found interesting, she wanted to see it in person. Natalie and her husband, Rod, have been to each of the seven continents, 50 countries, and almost all the states. She wanted to instill her passion for travel in her grandchildren and made sure to take them on several trips throughout the United States. It wasn't uncommon to see Natalie sitting on her front porch reading a book or at the New Haven Library choosing her next read. Natalie loved life. She was always eager to wake up and start a new day. Family and friends were extremely important to her. She had a contagious smile and cheery disposition admired by all who met her. Natalie is survived by her husband, Rodney King of New Haven; son, Douglas (Jennifer) King of Indianapolis; daughter, Paula (Sam) Jarjour of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Crystal Parsons, Mitchell (Sami) King, Hattie (Vinnie) Palazeti, Gabe Jarjour, and Adam Jarjour; great granddaughter, Chloe Gesell; sister, Nancy Studrawa of Fostoria, Ohio; and two nieces and one nephew. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Preferred memorials to Purdue Music Organization, https://www.purdue.edu/pmo/ Arrangements by Harper's Community Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E. New Haven. For online condolences please visit www.harperfuneralhome.com.