James "Jim" Kopp

James "Jim" Kopp, 84,  of Seneca Oregon, died at his home on March 5, 2018.

Jim was born in Mount Kisco New, York December 9, 1933.  Sadly, Jim's parents died when he was very young.  He quit school in the 6th grade, but was self taught.  Jim went to work with his Uncle on the fishing boats back east in his early years.  He married and had four children, later divorcing.  He continued his life education by studying, taking classes and reading.

Jim moved to Alaska and became a trapper. He married a woman by the name of Masanga, and held fond memories throughout his life for her.  They had one son of whom was lost while they were on a seal hunt.   He and Masanga later divorced. 

Jim then married Izzy.  Together they enjoyed trapping and finding artifacts in archaeological sites and more.  They too later divorced, but always kept in touch. 

For a time he worked and managed the Rainier brewery plant in Seattle, Washington. Jim was also a helicopter pilot in Nicaragua.  He was what they called a "flintknapper," and handcrafted blades out of obsidian.  This craft dates back thousands of years and has been practiced by cultures around the world.  Jim was an artist, he painted beautiful scenery.  He sketched, made ceramic pieces and enjoyed woodworking.  He made several wood pieces for his home, including a kitchen table and bookshelves.  Jim enjoyed listening to classical music when he was working in his shop.  Jim loved the taste of "Hamm's beer"  and he rolled his own cigarettes till the day he died.  Jim moved to Seneca 20 years ago and was embraced by it.

He was preceded in death by two sons.

Jim is survived by his children; Ray Kopp, Cherylee Hack, Darlene Dos Santos and Kerry Clady;sister Jane and Gary Pantry of Bermuda; longtime friends Tammy Cartner  and Rick Saul; ex-wife but always a close friend Izzy Kopp.  A special thank you to Sue Holiday who never failed to bring Jim a Christmas dinner.

Honoring Jim's request, he will be resting at Glass Butte in Harney County. For those who would like to make a donation in memory of Jim, the family suggests Hope4Paws of Grant County through Tami's Pine Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Services PO Box 543 Halfway, Oregon 97834.  Online condolences may be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com