Terry Eugene Coppersmith

Terry E. Coppersmith, age 75 of Holland, entered the realms of heaven and into the everlasting arms of Jesus Wednesday, April 20, 2022, in Holland. Terry was baptized as a covenant member of Central Wesleyan Church.

Terry was the eldest son of Herbert E. Jr. and Esther (Schofield) Coppersmith. He graduated from West Ottawa High School in 1966. Physical Education was his favorite class and he enjoyed being the Senior Leader in gym classes as well as the Team Manager of the Freshman/Sophomore swimming teams. Quick on his feet, he was the conference champion in the 100, 200, and 880-yard relay. A memory that stood out for him was meeting Olympian Jesse Owens at their sports banquet.

Terry loved his country and enlisted in the Army serving in the Vietnam conflict from 1966-to 69. At Fort Campbell, Kentucky, the first Transportation Supplies outfit, 212th Aviation Battalion was formed for Viet Nam. It was noted by Terry that it was unfortunate that when they arrived in Viet Nam absolutely nothing was set up for their arrival and tasks. Another clear memory was the truly scary moment at their site on Marble mountain when he noticed that the area where they were placing their garbage the location of the entrance to a Vietnamese Hospital within the mountain was located right behind it! Terry maintained a life-long membership in the VFW.

To say he was an avid sportsman, hunting and fishing is an understatement. It is reflected in his life-long membership of the Gun Owners of America, his role as a Range Officer at the Tulip City Rod and Gun Club for 21 years, and his expertise in creating the finest fly fishing ties.

At Herman Miller, he held various positions and was in the tool crib when he retired after 22 years. In his retirement, he became an active supporter of many Christian ministries and other US Veterans’ causes.