Steve Gene Cope was born on July 28, 1948, in Hartville, Missouri to parents Lavern Cope and Irene Geneva (McCulley) Cope. He departed this life on May 4, 2026, in his home. He was 77 years, nine months, and seven days old.
Steve was joined in marriage with Yvonne (Jennings) Cope on Aug. 16, 1968. To this union three children were born, Bradley Eugene, Brian Lavern and Lori Ellen; six grandchildren, Matthew Steven, Nicholas (Red) Bradley, Savannah Allynn, Brittany Nichole, Stacy McRay and Brayden Zane; and three great-grandchildren, Maverick, Meadow and Berkleigh.
Steve was drafted into the Army in 1969. Early in his career, he advanced to non-commissioned officer status and was sent to Vietnam with the 101st. His military career spanned 24 years. The last eight years of his career were spent with the 95th division at Fort Leonard Wood in retention and recruitment.
He formed many lasting friendships during this time and their second love was riding motorcycles. There was an unspoken bond between this group of friends. They always had each other’s back.
During his 25 years of managing/owning a real estate business, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in business and continued his education in communications. Steve’s interests were many, including farming and cattle, but one of his true loves was the outdoors. He shared this passion with his sons and grandchildren. He also had lifelong friends that shared this same passion. Larry Kemper and Howard Hawkins shared many campfires and hunting and fishing adventures over the years.
Steve has left a big footprint in the lives of many friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; son, Brian (Jennifer) Cope; daughter, Lori Cope; grandchildren, Red Cope, Savannah (Gabriel) Foster, Brittany (Blake) Bennington, Stacy Mortenson and Brayden Mortenson; great grandchildren, Maverick Bennington and Meadow and Berkleigh Foster; and siblings, Sharon Aldridge, Janice Rader and Keith Cope. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Lavern; his brother, Mike; his son, Brad; and his grandson, Matthew.
A visitation for Steve will take place at 10 a.m. Monday, May 11, 2026, with a funeral beginning at 11 a.m., with Chaplain Matt Dusenberry officiating. Interment will follow the service at Ozark Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Evans Funeral Home of Houston. Online condolences may be left at www.evansfh.com.
