Arnold "Lee" Coppess

Arnold “Lee” Coppess 82, of Stanwood, IA, died unexpectedly of a brain aneurysm on the evening of Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. 

On Monday, February 7, 2022, Fry Funeral Home will host a Visitation from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. A Funeral service at the First United Church of Christ, Tipton, officiated by Rev. Kerri Sandusky, will begin with Military Honors presented by the Tipton VFW Post 2537, at 10:30 am on Tuesday, February 8, 2022.  For those who are unable to attend, a live stream of the funeral service will be made available either at www.firstucctipton.org or www.facebook.com/firstucctipton. After the service, a luncheon will be provided, followed by Graveside Services at St. John’s Cemetery in Clarence, IA. Cards and memorials may be addressed to Joyce Coppess at 574 Newton Ave. Stanwood, IA 52337. Online condolences may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com

Arnold “Lee”, son of Harlan and Erhmal Lucille (Fairley) Coppess was born on Sunday, July 23, 1939, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City, IA. After graduating from Clarence High School, Lee entered the Army Reserves on May 1, 1958. He served his country as a Hospital Clerk Typist, a ‘Radar O’Reilly’, until his Honorable Discharge on August 31, 1965. On April 20, 1963, Lee married the love of his life, Joyce Lucie Schwitzer, at the Peace Church in Bennett, IA. Together, they raised two daughters and farmed livestock and grain on Lee’s family homestead farm in Stanwood; which has been in the family for over 125 years. He was a member of the Clarence Lions Club, Cedar County Cattleman’s Association, Cedar County Farm Bureau and the Cedar County Pork Producers. Lee had little free time, but for over 20 years, he enjoyed his yearly one-week camping “escape from the farm” to attend the Sprint Car Nationals in Knoxville, IA. Lee was known to be a patient, understanding, empathetic, dependable and quiet man, with a great sense of humor. He showed his thoughtfulness for others by being a great listener and providing his support. He loved his family; and was especially proud of his grandkids. 

Lee is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughters, Penny (Charlie Case) Coppess of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Tracy (Pat) Boyd of Spencer, IA; brother, Larry (Marlene) Coppess of Clarence, IA; four grandchildren, Maddison Boyd and her fiancé Dylan Adams, Lauren Boyd, Ryan Boyd and Colin Boyd; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Geralene Robinson; and brother-in-law, Casper Robinson.

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