Linda Rae (Wells) Koplein Obituary (1949 - 2021)

Linda Rae Koplein, 72, of Baker City, Oregon passed away on September 14, 2021, at St. Alphonsus Medical Center, Baker City, Oregon. Linda was born on January 20, 1949, in Huntington Beach, California, to Norman Frederick Wells and Thelma Lorraine Crouch. Linda graduated from Huntington Beach High School in 1967. Her greatest passion was working with the clients at Step Forward Activities. Linda did this for nearly 39 years. She earned many smiles and hugs and undying loyalty from so many of Step Forward's clients; Linda gave them her full attention when they needed it most. She was a safe harbor for them to come to, where they could sit when they were upset without judgement or commentary. In 2000, Linda received the "Manager of the Year" award from the Oregon Resource Association. Ask anyone at Step Forward and they will tell you she earned that reward and deserved many more. Linda was a friend and mentor, confidante, advisor and guide to many of her co-workers. Linda was the foundation of Step Forward and a strong advocate for Step Forward's Mission. Her wit and laughter, knowledge, and heart will be missed dearly by all. Linda married Michael Koplein on December 10, 2004, in Baker City, Oregon. She enjoyed traveling with Michael to 'destinations unknown'. In addition to traveling, Linda enjoyed tending to her indoor plants; she had an amazing green thumb. Linda is survived by her husband, Michael Koplein, Baker City, Oregon; son Joshua Bryant, DuPont, Washington; sister Norma Arnold, Boise, Idaho; brother Norman Wells, Burbank, Washington, and 6 grandchildren. A private memorial service will take place at a date to be determined. Memorial contributions may be made to Step Forward Clients Christmas/Party Fund through Gray's West & Co. Pioneer Chapel, 1500 Dewey Ave., Baker City, Oregon 97814. To leave an online condolence for Linda's family, please visit: www.grayswestco.com.