H. R. 24
(Delegates Cann, Fragale, Linch and Warner)

"In memory of Donald L. Kopp, former member, former Speaker and former Clerk of the House of Delegates from the County of Harrison."
WHEREAS, Donald L. Kopp was born May 23, 1935, the son of Francis and Jenny Kopp, in Clarksburg, West Virginia.
Don Kopp was educated in the public schools of the State and immediately following his graduation, went to work in the glass plants of Clarksburg, working alongside his father. He quickly became an officer in the union representing glassworkers and stayed true to organized labor for the remainder of his life.
Married to Beverly Wyckoff, they had three children: Donald L, II, Jenny Le, Tina Marie, and four grandchildren.
His public service began at the early age of twenty-nine, when he was first elected to the House of Delegates and continued for more than thirty years. After having served twelve years as a member and Chairman of the Committee on Industry and Labor and the Committee on Interstate Cooperation, he was elected Speaker of the House at the beginning of the 63rd Legislature. Following a severe heart attack and a hiatus of two years, Don Kopp was reelected to the House in 1980 and served as Speaker Pro Tempore until January 1, 1983, when he was appointed Clerk of the House, following the resignation of former Clerk C. A. Blankenship. He was elected Clerk of the House on January 12, 1983, and continued in that position until his retirement on December 31, 1995.
A strong Democrat during his entire life, he served as First Vice Chairman of the West Virginia Democratic Executive Committee and was active in party affairs. His political advice was sought after by many who knew him.
Next to his grandchildren, his greatest enjoyment came from riding his motorcycle. It was not uncommon for him to plan weekend trips in the wilds of West Virginia to enjoy the natural beauty of the State and the friendliness and openness of her citizens whom he encountered at his many stops along the way. Once he even rode his motorcycle across four states to attend the annual meeting of the American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries in Illinois.
Donald Kopp ended his life as we know it on the 13th day of June, 1996, in a fashion he would have himself chosen: riding his bicycle with his son, Donny.
The Legislature has lost a friend, the House of Delegate has lost a friend, colleague, and mentor; therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Delegates:
That this House of Delegate hereby formally notes the life, service and passing of Donald L. Kopp., Member, Speaker and Clerk of the House, that it extends sincere expressions of its collective sorrow to his surviving wife, son, daughters and grandchildren, and that it recognize the years, service and accomplishments of a son, father, grandfather and friend; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare certified copies of this resolution for the family of Donald L. Kopp.