William (Bill) Thomas Copes, Jr., 89, of Cape Coral, FL, formally of Philadelphia passed away Saturday, July 22, 2017. Bill is survived by his loving sister Betty, beloved daughter Eileen, 6 cherished grandchildren Thomas, Adam, William, Chelsea, Amanda and William, and 5 dear great grandchildren Makayla, Rowen, Tyler, Caitlyn and Emmett. He is preceded in death by his wife Catherine, brother George, son William, daughter Catherine and grandson Paul.
William T. Copes had a beautiful life. Known as Bill to his friends and family, he was an honorable person and made a strong impact on so many lives.
William was born on July 18th 1928 in Philadelphia. He was the first child of William and Lillian Copes. He lived in Philadelphia Pennsylvania from 1928, moving to Cape Coral Florida in 1995 where he resided until his death..
William graduated High School, and joined the Army to serve in World War II, He Married his long time girlfriend Catherine Yocum while he was enlisted in the service. Upon leaving the service, he went to work for The School District of Philadelphia as a Custodial Engineer, and fathered 3 Children. Eileen, Catherine and William the 3rd. When he retired he also worked as a Custodial Engineer for a Nursing Home in South Philadelphia. During his retirement he was also a Grandfather to 6 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren.
William was very passionate about Radio, Film and Technology. He devoted much of his time to Ham radio which he was known as K3URN to his other enthusiast.
There are so many good memories of his trip to Hawaii, taking family to the Shell Factory or beach, or just sitting down with a hot cup of coffee discussing his day. William was a remarkably funny person. He always had a quick wit and could make you laugh even at your personal darkest times.
Above all William believed in family. He always wanted us to be together and not have disagreements. He loved every family member and would always go out of his way to make sure he was there for you when you needed him. William, thank you for being a part of all of our lives. We will miss you and cherish the memories we have of the time you were able to spend with us.
A visitation will be held at Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery, Cape Coral FL, on Thursday, August 3rd between the hours of 10 – 11am with service and burial to follow.
In lieu of flowers we ask you please make a small donation to COPD Research or Alzheimer's Research.
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