Gerald Kopp

1947 - 2025

Jerry Kopp, a resident of Mather, California, passed away peacefully Tuesday, October 14, 2025 in hospice in Rancho Cordova, California. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Leila, and recently by his son, D'metre Kopp.

Jerry was born in Syracuse, New York, the second child of nine, to Raymond and Mary Duffy Kopp also of Syracuse.

After graduating from St. Anthony of Padua High School in 1965, Jerry briefly served in the Navy and then relocated to California where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science at San Jose State University. Jerry joined the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services where he was the Senior Emergency Services Coordinator from January 1993 until his retirement in December 2012.

Jerry enjoyed the arts and theater. He was a volunteer docent for the California Fine Arts Association and a volunteer usher at the local community theater. Throughout his life he was a photographer and amateur artist specializing in watercolor. Jerry was an avid reader, was always involved in politics, enjoyed his beautiful rose garden as well as smooth jazz and classical music.

Jerry is survived by two brothers, Raymond Kopp and John Kopp, along with six sisters, Yvonne Collins, Pauline Burnett, Sharon Churchill, Mary Kopp, Margaret Pendergast, and Anne Burnik. He is also survived by his very good friend and neighbor, Mario Bronze.

Jerry was a sincere, humorous spirit who will be dearly missed by those who loved him. A private memorial service will be held in California at a later date.