Vernon Kopsell

Vernon Thomas Kopsell, of Woodstock, passed away October 24, 2015 at the age of 90. He was born September 25, 1925 to George and Lillian (Wilson) Kopsell in Woodstock; the oldest of 13 children.

Vernon finished 8th grade and went on to Washburne Trade School in Chicago. He enlisted in the army at the young age of 16. He was stationed in the Pacific during WWII. His unit was the 503rd Parachute RCT Association, WWII. He also served as a Liasion Pilot during this time. He returned home on December 25, 1945. “Bi Goos! & Mabuti!”

On December 16, 1947 Vernon married Barbara Fuchs in Bakersfield, CA.

He was a very skillful and creative Plaster and Bricklayer. Much of his handy work can be found around McHenry County as well as the Chicagoland area.

Vernon was a founding member of the local VFW. He also did volunteer work at McHenry County Historical Society. He loved to share the good memories from his military service days with his family and friends. The stories he shared with us detailed his adventures and experiences. He loved to read biographies, watch westerns, feed the birds, liked old cars and airplanes, and taking care of his garden. He also loved to tease his family and we loved to tease him.

He is survived by his daughters Judy Kopsell and Janice (Danny) Schroeder; grandchildren, Julie Morse, Andy (Ellen) Schroeder, and Jessica Schroeder; great grandchildren, AJ Schroeder, Ian Morse, James Morse, Gabbie Morse, and Alena Schroeder; siblings, Clarence Kopsell, George Kopsell, Jim Kopsell, Bill Kopsell, Don Kopsell, Dorothy Gibson, Darlene Gathman, Barb Murray, and Linda Levan. We all loved him very much and he will be missed dearly.

Vernon was preceded in death by his wife, “My Barbara”; mother and father; sisters, Florence and Lucille; and his brother, Kenneth.

There will be a memorial service at 11 am with a time of visitation starting at 9 am on Saturday, October 31st, at Grace Fellowship Church, 200 Cairns Ct, Woodstock. Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery, Woodstock.

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