About This Memory Space
This page was created for Donald Joseph Cope's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Donald Joseph Cope's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Donald Joseph Cope. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Donald Joseph Cope crafted a life of steadfast determination, blending ingenuity, unwavering family loyalty, and a joyful spirit that inspired all who crossed his path.
Born amid the hum of Indianapolis in 1930, Don grew up as the second youngest in a bustling family of 11 siblings. Tragedy struck early when his father perished in a 1937 interurban accident, thrusting young Don into responsibility. He hustled through various jobs in his Fountain Square neighborhood, ushering at local theaters to ease his family's burdens. A standout at Manual High School, class of 1948, he pursued mechanical engineering at Purdue University, laying the groundwork for a career marked by resilience and skill.
Don dedicated his professional life to mechanical engineering at RCA, serving faithfully until a retirement offer in his 50s followed the 1987 acquisition by Bertelsmann. Far from idle, he channeled his expertise into consulting for more than ten years, solving challenges and mentoring others with his trademark precision and optimism.
Family & Loved Ones
Cherished moments with loved ones defined Don's world, from his 1950 marriage to Ragene Anne Remler—nearing 69 years together until her 2019 passing—to cheering at his children's school events and saving diligently so they could pursue college debt-free. His gentle guidance and patient wisdom touched daughter Julie Cope Saetre (and husband Pete), son Donald Roy Cope (and wife Wendy Wood), granddaughter Sandra Sookoo (and husband David), and sister Lois LeAnne Neuerman. Don's caregivers at Fairway Village became an extended family, bound by his kindness.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Tributes from acquaintances paint Don as a pillar of quiet strength and infectious cheer, with many recalling his knack for turning ordinary days into adventures through humor and hands-on projects.