ObituariesJune 8, 2024

Howard D. Copp
Howard D. Copp

~ In Loving Memory of Howard Copp ~

Howard Copp, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024, in Kennewick. He was born on Sept. 5, 1934, in LaCrosse, Wash., to Wilbur and Luella Copp, and was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Gerald Copp and Donald Copp.

Howard is survived by his loving wife (of 68 years) Martha, his devoted children Linda Meigs (David) and Bryan Copp (Yanling), as well as his four grandchildren Timothy Lokken (Talia), Jamie Blake (Brad), Kelly Lokken (Haley) and Alexandra Copp (Sheldon), and his twin great-grandsons Braden Blake and Jordan Blake, and great-granddaughter Lottie Lokken.

Howard’s journey began in LaCrosse and Hooper, Wash., where he attended school before graduating from LaCrosse High School in 1952. He then pursued his passion for civil engineering, entering Washington State College in the fall of 1952. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Washington State University in 1957 and 1960, respectively. Additionally, he attended graduate school at Stanford University from 1963-64.

His career as a dedicated educator and civil engineer spanned nearly four decades. Howard joined the faculty of the Department of Civil Engineering at WSU in 1957, where he influenced countless students with his knowledge and passion for his field. He retired in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence and mentorship.

Throughout his life, Howard faced the challenge of type 1 diabetes, which he bravely battled from the age of 10. Despite countless health setbacks over the years, he faced each obstacle with strength and dignity, never allowing his condition to dim his spirit or deter his determination.

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Despite his personal health challenges, Howard and Martha embarked on many adventures around the world, forming lasting friendships through Friendship Force, tours and self-guided trips. They even spent a memorable one-year sabbatical in the Netherlands, immersing themselves in new cultures and experiences. In retirement, Howard and Martha enjoyed countless winters in Mesa, Ariz., basking in the warmth of the desert sun and creating cherished memories together.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Howard was deeply involved in his community and church. He served on the WSU Faculty Senate, the session of Pullman Presbyterian Church, and two terms on the Pullman City Council. In his retirement years, he continued his service, spending two terms on the board of directors of his retirement community in Mesa.

Howard’s dedication extended beyond his community involvement; he was an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, contributing to the advancement of his profession and fostering connections with colleagues nationwide.

Howard will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his passion for education and his tireless service to others. His kindness, wisdom and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 15, at the Pullman Presbyterian Church, 1630 NE Stadium Way, Pullman. All are invited to attend. A family celebration will be held later this fall to commemorate what would have been dad’s 90th birthday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Howard and Martha Copp Scholarship, College of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Washington State University at: ce.wsu.edu/giving or call (509) 335-0144. If donating through the website, please donate to the Excellence Fund and in the notes add: “Please put donation in the PG00000276 Howard and Martha Copp Scholarship.” If mailing a check, send to the College of Civil and Environmental Engineering – Excellence Fund, WSU, P.O. Box 642910, Pullman, WA 99163.

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