It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Meara Renee (Callaghan) Oppelaar, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and dedicated registered nurse. Meara passed away peacefully on August 19, 2024, at the age of 35 in Virginia Commonwealth University Hospital, Virginia.
Meara, 35, was born on May 29, 1989, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. From a young age she exhibited a compassionate spirit and a desire to help others, which led her to pursue a career in nursing. Meara studied nursing and received her BSN from Beth-el College of Nursing, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Her passion of caring for mothers and newborns guided her to specialize as a labor and delivery nurse at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London, Connecticut and York Hospital in Maine. In this role she touched countless lives with her kindness and expertise. She continued as a registered visiting nurse at the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society in Connecticut, Guam, Maine, and Virginia.
Meara is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel; her beloved children, Paige, Harrison, and Eileen; her parents, Jack Callaghan and Peggy Annin; and her sister, Kate Luedtke.
Meara knew the love of her life, Daniel Oppelaar, since high school. The two were inseparable from the start and married on July 4, 2009. The strength of their love is evident as it survived fifteen years of marriage and 18 years of Daniel serving his country as a US Navy Submariner.
Meara enjoyed crafts such as quilting and crocheting. She was a devoted mother that put love into everything she did. All three of her children will carry on her spirited laughter and tenacity to make the world a better place.
Meara will be deeply missed by all who knew her and will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, generosity, and love.
A celebration of Meara’s life is planned for Sunday, August 25th at 2pm at the NAS Oceana Main Gate Park, pavilion #3. All are welcome to come pay respects and enjoy food and games at the park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Oppelaar Bereavement Fund (https://gofund.me/a4820ea5)