Opal Fay Dauenhauer , age 98 of Waterford, Michigan and formerly of Indiana, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025.  She was born on August 5, 1926, in Dawes, West Virginia to the late Johnathan Burton and Oddie Smith (née Rowh).  Though small in stature, she was tough, resourceful, and always full of love.  Her early life taught her the value of hard work, resilience, and family - values she carried with her throughout her life.  She met and married the love of her life, Thomas Bernard Dauenhauer, who had just returned from proudly serving in the U.S. Army.  Together, they raised seven children, instilling in them the life skills they needed to become well-rounded, successful individuals.  In the Dauenhauer household, everyone learned how to cook and take care of the home.  Life wasn't always easy, but Opal's strong character, humor, and grace helped her persevere.

Opal loved reading V.C. Andrews books in her free time and had an "open-door" policy - welcoming friends, neighbors, and anyone in need with warmth and kindness.  After raising her children, Opal worked part-time at the local country club with her dear friend and neighbor. The two were affectionately known as "The Salad Girls."  Opal was also athletically gifted - an avid volleyball player in her younger years and an exceptional bowler. She bowled in leagues with a 163 average and got to enjoy the game with her children and loved watching (and later listening to) Celebrity Bowling.  More than anything, Opal adored her family - especially her grandchildren.  Her peanut butter fudge and potato salad were staples at family gatherings and will be deeply missed.  Opal's kindness, strength, and love will live on through her family and all who had the privilege to know her.

Opal is survived by her children: Raymond Lee (Ruth Ann) Smith, Terri Kay (George) Baylor, Geraldine Louise (Tony) Zagurney, Michael Eugene (Jill) Dauenhauer, Lou Ann Dauenhauer, and Roberta Jean Dauenhauer and Jean Lamberson - a very dear family friend who she thought of as a daughter.  She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, including Karen Ann (Paul) Jones, Raymond Arthur (Judy) Smith, Debra Smith, Robert (Cheryl) Fisher, Christina (Todd) Sutton, Craig (Carrie) Campbell, Samuel Rains III, Jonathan Rains and his fiancé Tiffany, Stefan (Casey) Zagurney, Tony Pizzo, Angela Dauenhauer, Robert Dauenhauer, Wendy Tottingham, Amy (Lee) Calvin, Ernest (Angela) Watson III.  She is also survived by her stepsister, Mary Ann Landess; daughter-in-law, Cindy Dauenhauer; and granddaughter-in-law, Carrie Smith.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 42 years, Thomas Bernard Dauenhauer; son, Duane Charles Dauenhauer; grandchildren, Christopher Dauenhauer, Timothy Smith, Kevin Pizzo; son-in-law, Terry Maynard; siblings, Lawrence Smith and his wife Mary Jane, Laurie Koon and her husband Kenny, Goldie Morris and her husband Wayne, Betty Ball, and Shirley Jones.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 21, 2025 from 3 to 9 pm at Coats Funeral Home in Waterford, Michigan.  A graveside service and burial will take place at 2 pm on Friday, May 23, 2025 at the Elwood City Cemetery with Pastor Scott Blaylock of Life Church in Elwood officiating.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.