Francis William Kopp
October 4, 1931 ~ November 20, 2023
Francis “Fran” William Kopp, 92, of Princeton formerly of Buda passed away on, Monday, November 20, 2023 at OSF Saint Clare Medical Center in Princeton.
Fran was born October 4, 1931 in Kewanee, IL the son of William A. and Ruby Frances (Loudenburg) Kopp. He married Carolyn VanDeGenachte on November 7, 1953 in Kewanee. She preceded him in death on July 6, 2016. At a young age Fran stepped in to manage the family farm after his father passed away and continued to farm until his retirement in 1986. Fran served in the United States Army from 1954-1956 and was active member of American Legion Post #261. He also was a member the Lions Club in Buda. Fran enjoyed watching NASCAR, playing slots at the Winner’s Circle in Springfield and being outdoors tending his garden. He was fond of animals, especially his grand dog, Chance.
Fran is survived by his two daughters, Deborah Weber and Sandra VanderMeersch both of Springfield; one son, Jerald Kopp of Buda; four grandchildren, Tyler (Kasey) VanderMeersch, Travis (Rachel) VanderMeersch, Justin Kopp and Julia Kopp; three great-grandchildren, Ariya, Axtyn and Ruby VanderMeersch.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two siblings, Bertrum Kopp and Alberta Ioder and one son-in-law, John C. Weber.
Visitation will be from 10:00am until time of funeral service at 12:00pm on Friday, December 1, 2023 at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Princeton with Gaile Arnold, officiating. Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery in Sheffield, IL with Military Honors.
Pallbearers will be Jerald Kopp, Tyler VanderMeersch, Travis VanderMeersch, Justin Kopp, Brent Kopp and Bill Grieve.
Memorials may be made to American Legion Post #261 in Buda, Wreaths Across America or Friends of Strays.
Online condolences can be left at www.grant-johnsonfh.com
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So very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I know there is a lot of catching up going on in Heaven over some coffee with your mom and dad and my parents. Prayers for your family.
Jerry, i am so sorry to see your dad pass away . i know you were very close to him. i’m here for you i just wish i could be there with you. call me anytime or just come over. 815-866-8771. love you.
I am just so sorry for your loss. Praying for all of you. God bless you much and hold you close in the palm of His hand.
So sorry to hear of this loss. The memories of our families together, and hearing our parents laughing while we played, bring smiles to my face. May your memories comfort you! God Bless!!
Debbie and Sandy,
I know how painful the loss of your father is, but rejoice in the thought of your parents reunion. You have many wonderful memories that will make you laugh and cry, but sustain you in the coming years. What a life well lived and loved your father had.
God Bless.