Michael A. Kopp, 66, Vandalia
Michael Allen Kopp, 66, of Vandalia, IL, passed away Friday, July 22, 2022 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Mike Kopp
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at the First Presbyterian Church of Vandalia with Rev. Joe Lawson and Pastor Dan Laack officiating. Interment will follow in McInturff Cemetery, rural Vandalia. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Tuesday, July 26, 2022 at the First Presbyterian Church and one hour prior to services on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fayette County Cancer Fund or the First Presbyterian Church. Online condolences can be expressed at www.hohltandfilefh.com
Michael Allen Kopp was born on September 15, 1955 in Springfield, IL, the son of Robert and Doris (Barrow) Kopp. He married his soul mate, Marilyn Jean Smith on March 20, 1976; together they celebrated 46 years of marriage.
In his younger years, Mike moved to Divernon, IL where he eventually graduated high school in 1973. Following graduation, he briefly attended SIUC and then began working at the Office of Education in Springfield, IL. It was here where he met the love of his life. After moving to Vandalia, Mike worked at the Coffeen Coal Mine prior to starting his 32-year career as the maintenance supervisor for Vandalia Community Schools; retiring in 2018.
Mike was a Godly example in the lives of many, one of the most selfless men you could ever meet. He lived his life for his family; he could rule with an iron fist, be a voice of reason, or give a gentle hug when needed. “Pop” cherished every family gathering, dinner, and vacation. His kids and grandkids were his pride and joy. He was a devoted husband, father, and Pop; taking pride in everything they did.
Mike was a devout and faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church of Vandalia. He served on several committees throughout the years, was a former youth leader, and most recently an elder; he loved his church and church family.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Kopp; son, Zachary Allen Kopp and wife Angel; daughter, Lindsay Kay and husband Jason Gatewood; grandchildren, Delaney René Kopp, Baylen Michael Allen Kopp, and Breckin Lee Gatewood all of Vandalia; step brother, Michael Klobnak of St. Louis, MO; brothers-in-law, Gary Wright of Bartlett, IL, Kenny Smith, Bob Smith and wife Helen, Ed Smith and wife Jackie, and Herb Smith and wife Debbie all of Vandalia; goddaughter and niece, Kristi Moll of St. Louis, MO; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by his parents; step father, Mike Klobnak; sister, Cynthia Wright; step-brother, Robert Klobnak; and sister-in-law, Karen Little.