Ted was born October 19, 1917 to Steve and Mary (Perio) Kopcha and lived his entire life in East Akron. He was a graduate of East High School and was a proud U.S. Army Veteran. Ted was a kind and compassionate man who would help anyone in need. His greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family. His favorite saying was “If you don’t have family, you don’t have anything.”
After graduation, Ted spent three years (1936-1939) in the Civilian Conservation Corps (known as the 3 C’s) working in Idaho, Washington state, and Oregon on various projects. From 1940-1943 he worked for Goodyear Aircraft. When WWII broke out, he joined the Army and served his country until February 1946. He was awarded the EAME Theater Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. Ted returned to Akron to work at Goodyear Aircraft until his retirement in 1975 after 35 years. He still gets a thrill every time he sees the Goodyear Blimp, which often passes over his home.
Ted grew to love all animals since his wife Matilda “Tillie” always seemed to be dragging in some stray cat or dog that showed up in their yard. He fed the birds and squirrels and enjoyed watching them from the swing in his backyard. He took pride in his flowers and garden and even won a beautification award from the City of Akron.
Ted was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 56 years, Tillie (Shady) Kopcha, who passed away in 2004; brothers, George and Nick; sister, Eleanor; as well as one great-grandson, John (baby Jack) Crowley. Ted is survived by his daughters, Helen (Thomas) Sopko and Mary Ann (Rod) Dingler; grandchildren, Thomas Jr. and Christopher Sopko, Kelly (Robert) Crowley and Timothy Riordan (who lived with his grandfather); and great-grandchildren, Robert “Bobby” and Kathryn “Katie” Crowley and Thomas Sopko III. Dad was thrilled to welcome more family, with the addition of step-grandchildren, Carlton, Garet and Brandon Dingler and their children, Britney, Kaylie, Taylor and Tyler (“The Munchkins”), Sydney, Hannah, Hayley and Clair Dingler. Always by his side was his faithful dog and companion, Dudley.
No calling hours will be observed. There will be a private burial of Ted and Tillie’s ashes at a later time at the East Akron Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Salvation Army, the Haven of Rest or Hospice of Summa. The family wishes to thank the entire hospice team for assisting dad and allowing him to stay in his home. Special thanks to Tim Riordan and Sabrena Posey for their special love and care.
