SCHOPEN, Colette

Arizona Daily Sun, Flagstaff, Arizona, Sunday, September 30, 2012 Colette M. Schopen Oct. 8, 1961 - Sept.13, 2012 Colette Schopen, age 50, passed away September 13. She was born Oct. 8, 1961, in Burbank CA, the daughter of Fred and Mary Rossow. The family moved to Durango CO in 1972 where she graduated from Durango High School in 1979. She moved to Flagstaff AZ in 1989, where she met her husband Ned Schopen, they were married at St. Columba Church in Durango CO, April 28, 1990. She was employed with the United States Geological Survey in Flagstaff until 2008 and remained in Flagstaff until her death. She preferred to live a more private life with her husband and together they enjoyed many of the outdoor activities the area provides. Colette had the misfortune of being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 9. She was determined not to let that dampen her Spirit and her love for life. Despite the daily reminder of her illness, she carried herself through each day with a beautiful smile, a wonderful friendly personality, and an infectious laughter that would brighten anyones day. A genuine joy to be in her presence, she was an inspiration to all and a hero to those that knew her best. Her long battle ended peacefully in her home as she had hoped. Colette was preceded in death by her father Fred. She is survived by her husband Ned, her mother Mary, her sister Debbie, and her brothers Keith and Tim. No memorial service will be held at her request. This obituary was prepared by the Advertising Department (928) 556-2279.