Nicholas Paul Kopcha of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away on April 7, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on August 14, 1943, in Saint Louis, Missouri, he was the son of Stephen and Christine Nelms Kopcha. Nicholas married Leslie Berry on March 7, 1976, in Ladue Chapel, Missouri, and together they made Mountain Home their home after relocating from Missouri.

Nicholas had a deep love for the water and was well known as a fishing guide on Norfork Lake and the White River. He found joy in hunting, writing, gardening, and playing the banjo. His artistic talents extended to crafting beautiful Indian-style wooden flutes and creating bracelets and jewelry by hand.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Leslie Kopcha of Mountain Home; three children; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a brother, Stephen (Avis) Kopcha; three nephews; and a niece. Nicholas was preceded in death by his parents.

In honor of Nicholas’s memory, donations may be made to The National Audubon Society. Arrangements are entrusted to Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services in Mountain Home, Arkansas. The family invites you to share your memories and condolences online at www.kirbyandfamily.com.