John Henry Kops, nearly 92, Batesville, passed away on Saturday, March 2 2013, at Margaret Mary Hospital.
John was a member of the Greatest Generation that ever lived. Born on March 15, 1921, to Henry and Minnie (Gunter) Kops, he was 8 years old at the start of the Great Depression. He graduated from Batesville High School in 1939 and attended Butler University. He fought in World War II and was awarded a Purple Heart. He came home and married Mildred Elizabeth Sophie Narwold on March 2, 1946. Yes, he died on his wedding anniversary. His wife, Mildred, died May 15, 2009, after 63 years of marriage.
Like most veterans of the WWII, upon returning home John did whatever it took to make a good living for his family and to rebuild America. John was a life long farmer, but also did carpentry on the side as well as served as secretary of the Mutual Fire & Aid Insurance Company. He was always available to help his family, his neighbors, and any others in the community who needed his help. The favor, though not expected, was always returned.
After the passing of his wife, John discovered a talent for cooking. His pies and cookies became favorites at all the family pitch-ins and during the holidays. During baseball season, many hours were spent watching major league games. While he remained a loyal Cincinnati Reds fan, he watched any game available. John lived on the farm his entire life. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Crossroads, Batesville Masonic Lodge, and Batesville VFW.
John and Mildred had three children. Son, Dennis, passed away in 1980 after injuries sustained in a farm accident. His two daughters survive him: Carol Siebert of Batesville and Elaine Bedel (Eric) of Indianapolis. John is also survived by four grandsons: Todd (Tina) Siebert, Batesville; John (Jackie) Siebert, St. Louis; Adam (Kate) Bedel, Pasadena, CA; and Evan (Abbe) Bedel, Indianapolis; four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. John is also survived by his sister, Ethel Huneke, and sister-in-law, Dorothy Kops. He was preceded in death by his sister, Esther Smith and her husband, George; his brother, Ralph Kops; and his brother-in-law, Mervin Huneke.
Visitation is Wednesday, March 6, from 5 to 8 pm at Meyers Funeral Home with Masonic services at 8:00 pm. Funeral services are at 10:30 am Thursday, March 7, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Crossroads. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military rites conducted by Batesville VFW and American Legion. Contributions can be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or Phi Beta Psi Sorority for Cancer Research. Memorial checks can be mailed to Meyers Funeral Home.