Michelle Kopfer

Michelle Marie Kopfer (Gibbs), 57, of Longford, passed away on March 6, 2026, in Abilene, Kansas. Born on January 13, 1969, in McCook, Nebraska, to Clifford and Anne Gibbs, she grew up in Abilene and graduated with the Class of 1987. In 1991, she married Kellan Kopfer and moved to the family farm in Longford, where they spent 34 years together raising their two children.

Michelle was the quiet foundation of her family, known for her silent strength, quick wit, and generous heart. A natural listener and caregiver, she had a gift for making others feel truly seen and comforted, often helping in thoughtful, unseen ways. Her deep love of history and reading shaped a long career as an Archives Technician at the Eisenhower Presidential Library, where she served for over 35 years until her retirement in 2025. Even after retiring, she returned as a volunteer while helping manage the multi-generational family farm.

Above all, her greatest joy came from family. She cherished watching her children, Kelby and Riley, grow into strong adults who worked alongside her and Kellan on the farm, and she delighted in spoiling her grandchildren, Van and Avery. Pictures of Michelle rarely existed without a child in her lap.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Anne Louise Gibbs and Clifford Laverne Gibbs. Michelle is survived by her husband, Kellan; daughter Kelby Anne (Joe) Kopfer of Clay Center; son Riley James Kopfer of Longford; second mother Janet Gibbs of Abilene; brothers Jimmy (Cameron) Gibbs and Terry (Charlotte) Swearingen; sister Tami (Paul) Gaston; and her beloved grandsons, Van Monroe and Avery Taylor. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss her dearly.