Jerry Alan Kopp

Jerry Alan Kopp, 58, died August 19, 2010 following complications from surgery at Union hospital with his wife Chris at his side. Always one who made people laugh, Jerry will be missed by family, friends, and countless members of the community who knew him. Born May 21, 1952 in New Philadelphia, Jerry was the son of Margaret (DeStefani) Kopp and the late Warner Kopp. Jerry attended the University of Cincinnati and graduated from Kent State University in 1974 with an education degree in physics and math. He was a 1970 graduate of New Philadelphia High School, and may also be remembered by some as the county-wide 7th grade spelling bee champion representing Sacred Heart elementary school. Jerry worked for 29 years as a mail carrier in New Phila, where he was the self-described 2010 MVP. Jerry was most passionate about his family, including his wife of 37 years and high-school sweetheart Christine (Strimbu) Kopp and four children, in whom he instilled a sense of individuality and independence, a character of compassion, and a love of learning. He loved music: live concerts, playing the guitar, harmonica, and singing. He avidly read novels, and always looked forward to his Wednesday night bowling league with long-time friends.Having raised three daughters to adulthood, Jerry’s greatest pride was spending time and enjoying life with his son, Zac. Always fashionable, Jerry was known as much for his moustache as for his hilarious sense of humor and quick wit. Jerry is survived by his wife Christine (Strimbu) Kopp; daughters Jennifer Kopp of Oakland, CA, Emily Kopp of Dallas, TX, and Julie Kopp of Minneapolis, MN; son Zac Kopp of the residence; mother Margaret Kopp; brother Jim Kopp; sister Rosemary (Paul) Hines; mother-in-law Emma Strimbu; and many nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws, and loved ones. His body will be cremated through the care of Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory and no public visitation services will be held at this time. A celebration gathering for Jerry’s life will be held in December, with details to follow. Jerry once said, “Life is not about weathering the storm, it is about learning to dance in the rain.” You’ll be dancing in our thoughts forever, our beloved husband, friend, and daddy.