We were saddened to learn that GCI elder Wilmer Lopus died on July 24. Born in 1927, in Erie, PA, Wilmer lived in Eastern Ohio since 1967. He served GCI’s Wheeling, WV congregation as a deacon, then an elder. Wilmer’s contributions to the community, including the church, were lauded recently by the Ohio State Senate. Here is the official proclamation (picture added):
OHIO SENATE IN MEMORY OF WILMER CALVIN LOPUS
On behalf of the members of the Senate of the 131st General Assembly of Ohio, we extend our sincere condolences to the farmily and friends of Wilmer Calvin Lopus on the sorrowful occasion of his death.
Wilmer Lopus left an indelible impression on the people whose lives he touched, and he will be remembered as a spirited man who contributed immeasurably to the world around him. Among his endeavors, he was a veteran of the U.S. Army, a federal and special needs coordinator with the Edison Local School District, and a deacon and elder in the Church of God [referring to GCI], and his concern for improving the quality of life in our society was clearly evident in his personal sacrifices of time and energy to his family, friends, and community. His absence will be keenly felt.
A loving husband to his wife, Martha, a devoted father to his three daughters, Sharon, Sandra, and the late Cynthia, and the proud grandfather of two grandchildren, Jaries and Lucca, Wilmer Lopus always used his talents to the benefit of those around him, and the laurels of his life stand as a tribute not only to him but also to those he left behind. Although the void his death has created can never be filled, the legacy of care and commitment he established will surely live on. It is certain that the world is a richer place for his having been in it, and he will be sorely missed.
Thus, with deepest sympathy, we mourn the loss and salute the memory of a truly unique individual, Wilmer Calvin Lopus.
Senator Keith Faber
President of the Ohio SenateSenator Lou Gentile
Assistant Minority Whip_____________
Cards may be sent to:
Martha Lopus
PO Box 323
Richmond, OH 43944-0323
Dear Martha and family, So very sorry for your loss. What a wonderful tribute to Wilmer from the Ohio Senate. As a young teen in the Pittsburgh Church I remember Wilmer and his concern for and interest in the young people. So many wonderful memories of the Wheeling and Pittsburgh members and Wilmer seemed to always be in the midst. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Dear Family,
Please, do accept our sincere condolences. While our bodies may decay the legacy of our lives remains. Wilmer was obviously a remarkable Christian. May his example encourage others to follow his footsteps.
In Christ,
Santiago and Elke
Although we never met him Wimer has been a great ambassador for Jesus and our church and will be sadly missed. God bless you and your family and keep you in his loving care. From the Edinburgh church Scotland