JoAnne Margarite (Jacobs) Koplow

JoAnne Margarite Koplow, 93, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt passed away on Saturday, January 29, 2022.

Born on October 3, 1928, in Cleveland, OH, she was the last of eight children born to Harry and Hermina Jacobs. She attended Cleveland Heights High School and studied at The Ohio State University before meeting the love of her life, Roland T. Koplow. They were married in 1951 and soon after moved to Indianapolis. She raised their two children, taught pre-school for 17 years at the Bureau of Jewish Education, and later formed the backbone to her husband’s new business, Raleigh Ltd.

As the youngest of eight and the last surviving sibling, JoAnne was the glue that kept her large family together - a role that came to her naturally. She was generous, loving, and caring, especially towards the ones who were lucky enough to call her family.

To say that JoAnne was outgoing is an understatement. She was fast friends with everyone and never shied away from starting up a conversation with a stranger. Well into her ninth decade, she sustained a demanding social calendar and was constantly on the go. She had impeccable manners, an incredible sense of style, and loved to entertain. And even without her Raleigh by her side for the last 21 years, she honored his legacy by finding joy in the life that they had created together.

JoJo, as her grandchildren called her, loved to “tell it like it is” and while her opinions could be strong, she was a confidante to so many because of how fearlessly she spoke her truth. JoJo’s passing leaves a void in her loved ones’ hearts, but they are filled with the comfort of so many beautiful memories. Her zest for life was rare and enviable and it is the family’s fervent hope that her memory continues to inspire those who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raleigh; and all seven of her older siblings.

Survivors include her son, Mark (Cindi) Koplow; daughter, Cheryl (James) Greenberg; grandchildren, Hayden and Taylor Koplow, and Michael and Caroline Greenberg; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at 11 am in Beth El Zedeck North Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor JoAnne’s memory by making your next drink a Dewar’s on the rocks with a splash of water in a large stem glass. In addition, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.