Richard Christopher Cope

It is with great sadness that the family of Richard Christopher "Chris" Cope announce his sudden and unexpected passing at home on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at the age of 66.
Chris was born on March 21, 1956 in Gulfport, Mississippi to Walter and Helen (Cader) Cope. He led an adventurous life traveling the world during his youth with his Mom and three siblings, while his Dad served overseas in the U.S. Army. Chris graduated from an American high school in Tehran, Iran. He later found himself working on the Alaska Pipeline, traveling the Mississippi River by boat as a deckhand, and eventually discovering his newfound dream job as a Surgical Technician. While carrying out his studies at a local hospital, he met the love of his life and wife of 37 years, Marlene Faye (Hall) Cope. They were married on March 1, 1985 in Livingston, Alabama and less than a decade later, they found themselves in the small town of Holt, Missouri, where they have lived the last 29 years together.
Chris dedicated 24 years of his life at Liberty Hospital as a Surgical Technician and later transitioned to a case pull tech the last few years, before just recently retiring in August 2022. He was a true believer in doing things the right way, not only in the operating room, but in his everyday life. He was recognized, along with his wife, while living in Mississippi, for their contributions to the community by helping their fellow neighbors in need. He also lead by example in the act of chivalry, as he always opened doors and brought coffee to his wife's bedside every morning.
Chris's hobbies included: playing a part in fireworks displays for his family and friends, watching most, if not all, college and professional sporting events on television, and learning about American and World History. He loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren and was honored in earning the title, great-grandfather. He always put a smile on everyone's face and always strived to bring joy to those around him.
Chris is survived by his wife Marlene Cope, son Richard (Michelle) Mizell, grandchildren Carol (Shane) McCubbin, Danny Mizell, Tiffany (Khris) Keeley, great-grandchildren Adalynn and Hunter McCubbin, sister Jane Kramer, nephew Edward (Lora) Kramer, and niece Ginny Kramer.
He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Helen Cope, brothers Mike and Steve Cope, and recently his brother-in-law Joe Kramer.
His life has made a lasting impact on those near and dear to his heart. He will truly be missed by many.