Sammy "Sam" Ray Koopal

Sammy Ray Koopal, age 89, of Lyle, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at his home. He was born on October 7, 1937, in Sheldon, Iowa, to Cornelius “Case” and Jennie (Buss) Koopal. Sam’s family later moved to Lyle, where they farmed. He graduated as valedictorian from Lyle High School in 1955. On June 5, 1976, he married Judy Pater and together raised three children. Sam enjoyed farming, gardening, camping, riding his bike, bowling, watching the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.

He is survived by his children, Janae (Nohle) Steiner, Jason (Lacey) Koopal, and Jared (Rebecca) Koopal; and grandchildren, Samantha Steiner; Brady, Caralee, Crissa, and Brendan Koopal; and Kirsten, Case, and Chance Koopal. He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Koopal; parents, Cornelius “Case” and Jennie Koopal; and his brothers and sisters‑in‑law, William “Bill” and Eileen Koopal, and John “Jack” and Betty Koopal.

The family extends their sincere thanks to Renee Barth and Denise Bauer for their compassionate care of Sam over the past several years.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Woodbury Cemetery, Lyle. Memorials are preferred to the Lyle First Responders, the Lyle Fire Department, or another Lyle‑based community organization of your choosing. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.