Danny K's wife Lisa Koppel succumbs to cancer
Updated Aug. 11, 2026, 2:12 p.m. | By JacarandaFM Newswatch The family of singer Danny 'Danny K' Koppel has released a statement confirming the cause of…
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Updated Aug. 11, 2026, 2:12 p.m. | By JacarandaFM Newswatch
The family of singer Danny 'Danny K' Koppel has released a statement confirming the cause of death following news of his wife Lisa's passing on Monday.
Lisa Koppel, a lawyer in her own right and the daughter of revered legal practitioner Billy Gundelfinger, died at the age of 41.
In the statement, the family says she was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in November 2023, but chose to keep her illness private.
“She never wanted pity, attention, or sympathy. Above all, she wanted to protect her children and preserve their happiness and innocence for as long as possible. Even in the hardest moments, she remained gentle, humble, and remarkably brave, inspiring everyone who walked beside her,” the Koppels said.
The family says, following the diagnosis, Koppel sought medical treatment both in South Africa and abroad. Sadly, despite all attempts by healthcare providers, she could not be saved.
The family has gone public with the cause of Koppel’s death to raise awareness about colorectal cancer.
“Colorectal screening was traditionally recommended from age 50, but the disease is increasingly affecting younger people. Today, international guidelines recommend screening from age 45 for people at average risk,” the statement read.
They say Koppel hoped to one day share her experience to raise awareness of the disease and help others through early detection, but never got the opportunity. Her family will now carry this forward for her.
“Lisa’s illness will never define her. She will be remembered for the way she lived and loved: with kindness, humility, courage, and unwavering devotion to the people who meant everything to her.”
Koppel leaves behind her husband, Danny, and their three children. Both the Koppel and Gundelfinger families say they have been left shattered by the loss and asked for privacy as they grieve.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danny K (@dannykj23)
A post shared by Danny K (@dannykj23)
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