Laura Appel

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister and grandmother, Laura Appel, who passed away after a short illness on August 29, 2025, at the age of 83.
Laura was born in Burlington, Vermont, on March 25, 1942, to Wilfred “Bill” and Frances Cohen, and grew up in Keeseville, NY. A graduate of SUNY Geneseo, she dedicated her career to teaching children with special needs and inspired countless students through her love of education and theater, directing annual school musicals that became treasured community events.
In 1966, she married Richard Appel and together they raised two children, David and Jen in Phoenixville, PA. After many years and her children graduating high school and spreading their wings in college and beyond, to end up on the west coast, to follow their passions, she made the trek out west to be closer to them.
Following her retirement, Laura made her home in Surprise, Arizona, to be near her children and grandchildren on the west coast, where she was also active in her church and a devoted volunteer at the West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop. In later years, she cherished summers in Willsboro, New York, where she purchased a quaint cottage and enjoyed living the “lake life” on Lake Champlain with family, friends, and many games of Mah Jongg.
Laura is survived by her children, David (Shannon) Appel and Jen (Don Griegon) Appel; her grandchildren, Will and Penelope; her brother, Jay (Leslie) Cohen; her sisters, Marilyn (Larry) Shapiro and Bobbie (Emil) Chiauzzi; and extended family who loved her dearly. She was predeceased by her parents, her former husband Richard, and her partner William “Will” Kocsovsky.
Her family finds solace in knowing that Laura’s final days were filled with joy, having just returned from a European cruise she cherished. The thought that she was soon to move to California to be near her children and grandchildren brings peace to their hearts.
Celebrations of life will be held on Lake Champlain on September 25 and in Surprise, Arizona, on October 5. Please reach out to a family member for more details on times and locations. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop in AZ - 10615 W Peoria Ave, Sun City, AZ 85351