Vincent Walter Kopec

VINCENT WALTER KOPEC

Vincent Walter Kopec, born July 16, 1930, in Schenectady, New York, to Antonio and Ida Kopec, lived a life marked by service, generosity, adventure and devotion to others.

At the age of 17, Vince joined the United States Army and dedicated many years of his life to serving his country. He completed three tours in Vietnam. In 1956 he married his wife, Anneliese, in Heidelberg, Germany, and they adopted their two children, Lillian and Gerald. Vince was stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, in 1959. It was during his time in southern Arizona that Vince and his wife, Anneliese, fell in love with the area and decided to make it their forever home.

After achieving the rank of Major, Vince retired from the Army. He then began a twenty-year career in Civil Service before leaving behind a working life and enjoying his well-earned retirement.

For 50 years, Vince was a proud member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Through his dedication and generosity, he touched the lives of countless people and made a lasting difference in his community.

Vince also had a passion for the outdoors. An avid hiker and bicyclist, he participated in numerous charity walks and bicycle rides, always willing to lend his time and energy to causes that helped others.

Vince was known and loved by many. His kindness, sense of humor, strength, and spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow veterans and the many people whose lives he touched.

May he rest in peace. God bless his soul.