Alan Willard Cope 1938-2026

Alan was the son of the late Willard A. and Esther Bricker Cope and was a graduate of Salem High School and Youngstown State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. During and following his college years, he served for six years with a tank battalion in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Alan purchased a John Deere dealership in Alliance in 1966 and he went on to operate Cope Farm Equipment, later adding locations in Kinsman and Austinburg. He was active in his community and professional life, serving with the First National Bank of Salem, Society Bank of Northeast Ohio in Canton, and the Ohio Farm and Power Association in Columbus. At Youngstown State University, he was involved with the university’s foundation, the President’s Council and the business school. The business school recognized him as an outstanding alumnus in 2004.

Alan enjoyed spending time outdoors. He was a member of the Darlington Polo Club and took part in wing and trap shooting, earning a place on two all-Ohio trap-shooting teams.

Alan was preceded in death by his wife, Carole Rankin Cope, whom he married Aug. 17, 1963; and his brother, Richard Cope.

He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth A. (Beth) Barton of Salem, and their children, Jeffrey and Jared Barton; his son, Robert (Stephanie) Alan Cope of Alliance, and their children, Samantha (Ben) Muniz and Alexandria (Hugh) Davenport; four great-grandchildren; and his brother, Thomas Cope.

There are no calling hours.

A private funeral service for the family has taken place at Highland Memorial Park in Beloit. Arrangements were handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Alan’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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