In Loving Memory of Hertha Mathilda Katzakian (Koepplin)
December 9, 1925 - August 9, 2024
Hertha, aged 98, passed away peacefully at her home, on August 9, 2024. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who left behind a legacy of love, strength, and creativity that will forever be cherished by all who knew her.
Born on December 9, 2025, in Elgin, North Dakota, Hertha was the youngest of 9 children born to Jacob & Mathilda Koepplin. Hertha was a woman of remarkable resilience and passion, often sharing stories of growing up in rural North Dakota on a working farm and how that shaped her strong work ethic and need to keep herself busy and active throughout her entire life.
Hertha had a deep love for the arts, particularly painting. Her creativity knew no bounds, and she spent countless hours bringing beauty to the world through her artwork. She found inspiration in the many places she traveled to over the years, and each destination added a unique dimension to her work. Her paintings, full of life and color, reflected her vibrant spirit and the way she saw the world.
An avid golfer, Hertha enjoyed the challenge and camaraderie of the sport. She was a familiar face (and member) at the Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, where she not only honed her skill, winning dozens of golf tournaments over the years, but also forged lasting friendships.
Hertha, along with her husband and their 3 children, owned and operated Lodi Printing Company from 1948 to its closure in 2009. They served many local businesses over their 60+ years in business and built wonderful working relationships with their customers.
Above all, Hertha was a strong woman, whose courage and determination were evident in everything she did. She faced life’s challenges with grace and never wavered in her commitment to those she loved.
Hertha is survived by her 3 children, Philip Katzakian (Chris), of Lodi, Douglas Katzakian, of Galt, Virginia (Ginny) Pulliam (Don), of Lodi; 4 grandchildren, Bryan Pulliam (Tonya), Leia de Sha (David), Colin Katzakian and Lauren Katzakian; and 7 great-grandchildren (in order of birth), Luke Pulliam, Olivia de Sha, Avery de Sha, Derek Pulliam, Evelyn de Sha, Vivian de Sha and Liam Katzakian. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar Katzakian, and all 8 of her siblings.
Hertha will be dearly missed, and her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to know her, especially her family.
Her family would like to thank all their friends and extended family for their love and support during this difficult time. A private Service and Celebration of Life will be taking place to honor her memory.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Katzakian family.