Name: Calling hours for Donald Kopec
Start: 2016-12-14T19:00:00.000Z
End: 2016-12-14T21:00:00.000Z
Location: Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes - Delta Chapel

Donald R. Kopec

Lansing

Age 67, passed away Friday, December 9, 2016. Don was born in Hamtramck, MI, the son of Edward R. and Catherine Cecilia (Babuscak) Kopec. He was raised in Redford Township, MI and was very proud of his Polish heritage. Don was a graduate of Michigan State University in 1971 and received his Master's degree in Special Education in 1973. He was a fierce advocate for special education, spending his entire educational career with the Beekman Center in Lansing. He was instrumental in organizing and volunteering with Special Olympics Area 8. Don was also an avid sports fan and passionately followed the MSU Spartans and Detroit Tigers. Don loved to play golf, especially with his friends on Saturdays. Above all else, Don was a proud grandfather of his three grandchildren. Papa Don will never be forgotten.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and most recently, his brother, Richard Kopec. Surviving are his daughter, Erica (Chris) Terranova; grandchildren, Nicholas, Olivia and Cole; his former wife and great friend, Jill Kopec; sister, Carol (Mark) Nowatarski; many nieces and nephews also survive. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, December 15, 10:30 a.m., at St. Johns Church and Student Parish, 327 Mac Ave. East Lansing, with Rev. Fr. Mark Inglot as celebrant. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Palmer, Bush and Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel, 6020 W. Saginaw Hwy. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until service time at the church. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Beekman Center or Special Olympics Area 8 in memory of Donald R. Kopec. Friends may sign the online guestbook at www.palmerbush.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lansing State Journal on Dec. 13, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Kopec

Sponsored by Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes - Delta Chapel Delta Chapel.

18 Entries

Jim Adams

December 15, 2016

I just learned of Don's passing this morning, and I am without adequate words. The best and funniest college roommate and friend, I will always cherish the memories of laughter, mischief and adventures--- Don, Mark, Chip, Roscoe and yes, Big Rich. Kitty's great cooking that saved us every time Don returned from a home visit. Big Ed. So difficult to process.... Godspeed Don. Deepest condolences to Jill and the family.

December 15, 2016

So sorry to read this Donny K was a great guy and loved by our family! I an certain He and Rosco and Rich are laughing together again. Love you all
The Richard "Rosco" Roe Family (Ada) And Walter Family (Allen& Penny)

Claire Kzeski

December 15, 2016

Don Kopec was one of the best teachers at the Beekman Center, he loved the students, and they loved him back deeply. Mr. Kopec helped them to be responsible, hard working, young adults. His dedication to the development of Special Education students is un-matched. He was a father figure, and a champoin in their lives. Don was a friend to everyone he met, and he deeply loved his family. Don will be greatly missed.

Jack Weyers

December 15, 2016

To all of Donnie's family and dear friends, of which there are many, my heartfelt prayers and condolences. I met Donnie in 2008. Over these past years, I was privileged to spend a bit of time with him, golfing, receiving his counsel, and sharing a lot of laughter. Quite simply, Donnie was an inspiration to me when I was in a dark place and great friend and comrade thereafter. His huge heart, caring soul, and beautiful sense of humor and smile will be greatly missed.

Scott H

December 14, 2016

Donnie you have made a difference; with me and all the awesome kids you sent our way at M.S.U. I'll check on Dell for you. Peace brother.

Irie Lott

December 14, 2016

Erika, KC and I are deeply sorry about your dad. Although we've known you and Chris a long time, we knew Don best as my neighbor for the last 11 years; our kids loved to play in the puddles at the end of "Mr. Kopec's driveway"!
Don's neighbors on Aurora Drive are sending love and prayers to him and his family. We will miss seeing him on the street!

Mark Miano

December 13, 2016

One of oldest & best friends, from Jr. High thru MSU. You and Roscoe always made it fun. My condolences to Jill & Family.

Dixie Vann

December 13, 2016

My prayers go out to Donnie K's family during this time. Donnie was a great man with a huge heart and a great sense of humor. I will miss his jokes every weekend but the memories he left me with I am grateful for.

William Jackson

December 13, 2016

I met Mr. Kopec at a Special Olympics event several years ago when I moved to Lansing. When he found out that I had been an assistant superintendent in Los Angeles, he asked me about our special education programs. We spoke for about 15 minutes and I was impressed with his commitment to the children. To the family, my condolences and please know that Don touched so many people. He made a difference.

charles gorman

December 13, 2016

the roommate...funny, witty and passionate...especially the latter...about family, friends and those kids that were his perfect
match...his dedication and zeal he gave to and for them was unquestionably...for that, he'll remain unforgettable for all that were touched by him...rest well, pal, you've earned it all.

Jeff Newton

December 13, 2016

Prayers and thoughts go out to your family in this difficult time. Donnie was a great man that helped many people throughout the community. He will be missed!

Michelle Sommers

December 13, 2016

Words cannot express how truly sorry I am for all of you!! You're father,grandfather was one of the greatest men I had ever had the pleasure of knowing. He will be missed very much!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers..

MaryBeth Bartlett

December 12, 2016

Donny K! There are no others like him. He was a good man with a huge heart who loved life. You will be missed

Joe Daly

December 12, 2016

Don was a very good friend. We played allot of golf and had so many laughs. He will be missed by all of his golf buddies. Was a class guy.

Angie Harcus (Glasscock)

December 12, 2016

Oh, Erica, I'm so sorry. I have so many fun memories of your dad over the years. I've had the pleasure of running into him a few times recently and always was greeted with a hug. He left a lasting impression on so many and will be missed deeply. I pray for comfort for you and Chris, for your mom and for your babies. Much love to you all. Rest well, Donnie K.

Bob Durand

December 12, 2016

We are sending our condolences to your family. They are many great memories from our high school days. He will be missed.

Bob Durand, class of 1967 and Lorna Rau Durand, class of 1968

Bob Rybka

December 12, 2016

Prayers to all . Don was a good friend in high school and a great team mate in sports . He will be missed .

Roger Steffen

December 12, 2016

Don was one of Thurston High Schools Varsity Basketball Players in his Senior Year 1967. Don will always be remember as a true hustler and never ending energy, and his humor on and off the court.

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