Joseph W. Cope

Joseph W. Cope, 94, of Manheim, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, September 20, 2016. Born in Mount Pleasant, he was the son of the late Benjamin H. and Pearl Reese Cope. Joe was the loving husband of Marian Tangert Cope and they would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in November of this year. In 1984 Joe retired as a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service following 33 years of service. Joe was a proud U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant faithfully serving as an airplane mechanic during World War II. Joe was known for telling wonderful stories to friends, family, and anyone he would meet about his passion for his beloved Marine Corps and his military adventures. He was a lifetime member of the VFW. Most of all Joe was a devoted husband and father and had a life-long passion for his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife Marian, are three daughters: Linda wife of Raymond Byrne of Ellicot City, MD., Donna Cope of Hummelstown, Debra Minnich of Manheim, three grandchildren: Ray, Michele, Lindsay, four great grandchildren: Braydn, Tyler, Archer, Brooks, and a sister, Mildred Shank of Manheim. Preceding him in death are two sisters: Katheryn Cope, Margaret Eyman, and two brothers: Benjamin C. Cope and Lloyd Cope.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Joe’s memorial service at the Buch Funeral Home, 21 Market Square, Manheim, on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at 2:00 PM. Friends may visit with the family on Saturday afternoon October 8, 2016 from 1:00 PM until the time of the service. Interment will be in Manheim Fairview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Joe’s memory to: Hospice and Community Care, P. O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125 or Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, 3800 Fetter Park Drive, Suite 104, Dumfries, VA 22025.