Dana Simon Copp ... WWII veteran, longtime builder

ROCHESTER - Dana Simon Copp, died Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016, after a long brave fight with Parkinson's.
Born in Ossipee, N.H., to Maynard Daniel and Nora Eldridge Copp on October 30, 1927, Dana attended school in Milton and Rochester before serving three years in the US Navy. In 1948 Dana married Shirley Louise Simon, who could keep up with his sense of humor and deal a hand back like no other. Their love story and marriage provided a beautiful example for their three daughters.
Though never finishing school, Dana's thirst for knowledge continued throughout his life, even teaching himself the trade of carpentry and became one of the most respected and sought after home and barn contractors in the 1950's, 1960's and '70's. After his retirement, Dana realized his dream of becoming a "gentleman farmer" raising polled Herefords and never selling his cows for meat, but instead to 4H kids. He and Shirley would then travel the fair circuit watching his babies being shown. He and Shirley also loved antiquing and spending winters in Florida.
Dana was a great family man and one year outfitted himself, Shirley and their three girls with skis, and they all took off for lessons and skiing. Another year snowmobiles were bought and off they would go to Aunt Millie's to ride and have fun with the Henderson's. He also enjoyed golfing, playing cards, eating sweets (particularly ice cream) giving grandkids rides in his golf cart/tractor, playing billiards after supper, antiques (especially cars) playing dominoes, and babies. He could rock them for hours.
After more than 51 years or marriage and raising three daughters Dana lost his "Shirl", but was fortunate enough to find love again with Lorraine Clark of Rochester who was not only his companion and great friend but also caretaker during his long illness. Dana was a man who loved life, keeping a positive attitude even during trying times, and had a sense of humor that never, ever quit.
He was so proud of "his girls", his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and could often be heard bragging about one of them. Besides his daughters Linda Sherman and her husband Jim, Susan Copp-Silva and her husband Bob both from Rochester, Deborah D'Andrea and her partner Frank of Mass., he leaves seven grandchildren, Monica Sirois, Toby Sherman, Loren Bickford all of Rochester, Erica Cray from Wolfeboro, Alex Bickford of Barrington, Dana Bickford of Dover and Robert D'Andrea of Mass. He leaves his numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, Lorraine and her children Bill Clark, Debbie Clark, Nancy Rogers, and Jim Clark. He also leaves his friend and sister Millie Henderson of Milton, his brother in law and great friend John Van Buskirk of Rochester, numerous nieces, nephews, and many good friends.