Dr. John Alden Copps

Dr. John Alden Copps, age 87, died February 28, 2008. He was born July 10, 1920 to the late Dr. Lyman and Stella (Murat) Copps. Dr. Lyman Copps was a founder of the Marshfield Clinic in Marshfield, Wisconsin. John graduated from the University of Wisconsin, where he earned his PhD. He was a Professor of Economics at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, Kalamazoo College, and Western Michigan University, where he taught for thirty years. In 1944 he served in Great Britain with the Eighth Air Force in the personnel offices of a repair base. Retirement gave John time for watercolor painting and travel. John married Katherine (Buck) Smrcina in 1994. He also leaves a son, James Copps; "His Girls," as he called them: Rebecca (Forrest) Joppie and Suzanne (Darrell) Adams; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Along with his parents, John was preceded in death by a son, Robert Copps; two brothers, Dr. James Copps and William Copps. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Dr. John A. Copps may be directed to Village of the Oaks 1740 Village Dr., Muskegon, Michigan 49442.