Richard "Dick" Cope

Richard (Dick) Lee Cope, 75, transitioned into the loving arms of our Lord Jesus Monday, October 19th with his loving wife of 55 years, Susan, at his side.   Dick was born to Walter and Berta Cope in Marshalltown, Iowa on May 5th, 1946.  He had two siblings: Steve (deceased) and Pam Bane (Marshalltown).  In 1966, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Susan (Sue) Lynn Rinehart.  Together, they were blessed with two children: Angela Cope (Marshalltown), and Jason (Ankeny).   Dick was a 1964 graduate of Marshalltown High School, and a 1966 graduate of Marshalltown Community College.  He eventually went on to graduate from his beloved Iowa State University with a degree in Industrial Engineering.  Dick enjoyed a long and successful career as a Manufacturing Engineer for Fisher Controls and later Emerson Process Management. His early assignments focused on resolving manufacturing issues on the Marshalltown plant production floor. He assumed the Production Manager role for the evolving electronics products produced in Marshalltown prior to the groups move to Austin Texas. Later in his career he served as Plant Manager of the Houston Texas Valve Automation facility.   Dick’s greatest talent was his ability to work with people around the globe to become inspired, grow and be successful. During his many Project Management roles leading plant startups, plant expansions and rationalizations he made many lasting friendships which he valued highly. His assignments involved lengthy stays in many countries in Asia, East and West Europe, South and North America.  After retiring, Dick had more time to pursue his greatest passions: time with his family and community, cheering for the Iowa State Cyclones and grilling a good steak.  Some might even say that he was a bonified steak junkie.  His passion for travel also continued through the many trips that Dick and Sue took together, and with close friends.    Dick will always be remembered as an individual who built lasting friendships that had no concept for time or geography.  Whether you were a friend from school, a co-worker, or a member of the community, Dick built countless relationships that flourished right up until the time of his passing.  (He was kind, generous, and humble.  He never sought reciprocation and had a sense of humor that lit up any room.  Visitation will be held on October 22nd from 5:00pm – 7:00pm at the First United Methodist Church in Marshalltown.   A celebration of life will be held on October 23rd at 10:00am at the First United Methodist Church in Marshalltown.  Those left to cherish his memory include Dick’s loving wife Sue, their children Angela and Jason, Jason’s wife Deb, his grandson Gavin, his sister Pam, his brother-in-law Neal, Neal’s wife Dianne, his sister-in-law Carol, and a number of nieces and nephews.   In passing, Dick was reunited with his parents, his brother Steve, his brother-in-law Ron, and his grandson, Connor. Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Richard and his family. For questions or condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. - Lovingly written by the family