Richard and Sandra Koppelmann in their home in Gerald. Rich is holding a copy of “My Thoughts” while Sandy holds the letter from the Famous Poets Society informing her that had won the second place prize of $100. Drawings that Sandy’s father did to entertain his grandchildren. Sandy saved them through the years and used them to illustrate the book’s first poem titled “My Father.”

When she realized that she had written 85 poems, she decided to publish a book. “My Thoughts” by Koppelmann came out in November, just in time for her to give them to her family as Christmas gifts. “I just appreciate all my family for always backing and encouraging me,” she says.

She credits her late father, John Ruwwe, with being her biggest inspiration. “He didn’t write poetry, but he was always drawing. Whenever he would come over, he would draw pictures for the kids on whatever scrap of paper was laying around. When he would leave, I would gather them up, before the kids could mess them up, and save them. He could draw anything, she remembers.”

Koppelmann recruited Rich, her husband of 42 years, as her proof reader and editor. “He tells me what to correct, but he is careful to never tell me if he thinks they are good or bad,” she laughs.

“They’re good,” Rich quickly interjects.

The Koppelmanns have two children, Rick Jr. and Cindy Lindemeyer. Cindy and her husband Tim have two children, Joshua and Ashleigh.

Her poem “What is Love?” won second place in a contest sponsored by Famous Poets Society. A $100 cash prize accompanied the letter notifying her that she had placed in the contest.

Her book includes 87 poems—the 85 that she authored plus one from each of her two grandchildren. Sometimes people ask her to write a poem for a special occasion like a retirement, graduation or wedding and she usually obliges. These are also included in her book.

Many of the poems are about people in her life. Some are inspirational, some funny and some sad. One about her father, titled “Dad,” is all three, but this passage reflects her humorous side:

He’s wise about things we know nothing about;

He’ll answer all questions without any doubt.

One answer he likes and it never fails,

“Go ask your mother, she knows the details.”

If you would like to purchase a copy of “My Thoughts” you can call Sandy at 764-3620