Submitted by: Dan Rich

Charles A. Coppens
Oct. 3, 1916 - Dec. 16, 2002

South Bend Tribune 12/19/2002

Charles A. Coppens, 86, of Walkerton, Ind., formerly of South Bend, Ind., passed away on Monday, Dec. 16, in the Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center. He was born on Oct. 3, 1916, in Mishawaka, Ind., to Julius and Elodie (Vernese) Coppens. He married the former Florence Dennis, who preceded him in death in 1992. He was also preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Darlene Coppens in 1989.

He is survived by two sons, Phillip (Shirley) Heim of Fredricksburg, Va., and James Coppens of Plymouth, Ind.; a daughter, Cheryl (Jack) Rizek of Walkerton; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and by his dear friend, Katie Capes.

Mr. Coppens was an Army veteran of World War II and was a Purple Heart recipient. He had worked for Robert R. Walkers, Dallas and Mavis, Taylor Heavy Haul and Rieth-Riley. He was a member of the Mishawaka Civil Defense, VFW Post #1954, and Teamsters Local #364. He was a member of Southside Christian Church for many years. Mr. Coppens enjoyed his many friends at Real Services in Walkerton.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Dec. 21, at 11 a.m. in the Forest G. Hay Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Sumption Prairie Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday in the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made on behalf of Charles A. Coppens to the American Heart Association.