Donald Kopp
Glen Carbon | Save
Donald E. Kopp, 93, of Glen Carbon, and formerly of Granite City and Edwardsville, Illinois, passed away at 7:56 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Born on February 29, 1932, in Elvins, Missouri, he was the son of the late Arthur C. and Carrie E. (Russell) Kopp. Donald married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue (Funk) Kopp, on February 7, 1953, in Elvins. They shared nearly 70 years of marriage before her passing on September 17, 2022.
A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Donald faithfully served his country during the Korean War and received several medals and commendations. Following his military service, he devoted 35 years to the Granite City School District, serving with dedication as both an administrator and a teacher. His commitment to education and his students left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Donald was active in his community and deeply valued service to others. He was a member of the Granite City Masonic Lodge, Ainad Shriners, and the Jesters, and he volunteered for many years with the Shriners Hospital Unit. He also belonged to the Granite City Jaycees and was a longtime member and former deacon of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Granite City.
An avid outdoorsman, Donald loved fishing and hunting, and he especially cherished the many fishing trips he enjoyed in Canada over the years.
He is survived by three daughters and two sons-in-law, Cindy and Mark Hatscher of Edwardsville, Tracy and Mark Clement of Edwardsville and Carrie Kopp of Edwardsville; three grandchildren and a spouse, Casey and Nick Kayser, Dack Hatscher and Joe Clement; two great grandchildren, Dean and Cade Clement; other extended family and friends. In addition to his beloved wife and parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack and Bill Kopp.
In celebration of his life, family and friends will join at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. A graveside service and military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
