Maria Kepple, née Norval, passed away peacefully on January 9th at the age of 64. She was born on September 17th, 1961 in Klamath Falls. A lifelong Oregonian, Maria spent her childhood in Chiloquin and Springfield before settling in Portland.

Maria was a vibrant soul known for her love of music, her creative spirit, and her enduring gratitude. She was a woman of deep determination who found great joy in life’s simple pleasures: a perfectly baked banana cream pie, a "three-hour tour" through the city, and singing her favorite songs from memory, beginning to end.

Despite the profound challenges she faced, Maria maintained life was "basically good” to the very end. She was a beloved sister, cousin, and friend who taught those around her the importance of connection and the beauty of seeking out the icing on the cake.

Maria will be laid to rest at Mount Vernon Pioneer Cemetery in Springfield, Oregon, joining many family members, including her grandparents, David and Martha.  

Maria is preceded in death by her husband, Bruce and her mother, Maria. She is survived by her brothers, Jeff and Doug; her cousins, Steph, Randy, and Dave; her aunt, Karolyn; and an extended family that will forever carry her songs in their hearts.