Gene Orsen Cope, age 77 years, 10 months, and 13 days, passed away with honor and dignity, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love.

Military rites will be held at the South Dakota Veteran's Cemetery in Sioux Falls, SD on Thursday, July 10th, 2025 at 3 pm.

Gene was raised in Oakland, Iowa, where he attended school and worked on a farm during his high school years. A proud graduate of Oakland High School, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. His 22-year military career as an aircraft mechanic took him around the globe, including active service during the Vietnam War. He attained the rank of Master Sergeant and retired honorably; having built strong bonds with the men and women he served alongside. Gene's patriotism and commitment to duty were defining parts of his character.

Following his military service, Gene continued his passion for aviation by working with Southwest Airlines in Phoenix, AZ, where he specialized in maintaining Boeing 737s. He took great pride in his work and retired in 2010, leaving behind a reputation for excellence and reliability.

Gene had an adventurous spirit and a deep curiosity for how things worked. He enjoyed fly fishing, boating, off-roading, and flying remote-controlled airplanes. A true mechanical mind, he even built a computer with his son—just one of many examples of the special bond he shared with his family.  More recently, he enjoyed riding the scenic trails of Sioux Falls on his e-bike.

Gene loved his country fiercely and his family even more. His life was a testament to hard work, loyalty, and living fully. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Missing Gene deeply are his wife of 53 years, Bonnie; sons Timothy (Jennifer) Cope of Saddle River, NJ and Robert (Judie) Kupillas of Phoenix, AZ; sister Pam Gerlick of Colorado and grandchildren Josette, Ava, Daphne, Hannah, Jessica and Alyson.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, George and Velva Cope; sister Sondra and brother Wayne.