For many decades, our own Bob Copping has dedicated his life to making a difference — in his community, his state, his nation, and the world. And now he is being recognized with the Governor Romney Lifetime Achievement Award.
Board member and former state representative, Joan Bauer said ‘this is big, a great honor for Bob, the Speakers and the community”.
Born and raised in Petoskey, Bob’s early years were shaped by the Great Depression and life on the family farm. Those formative experiences instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and service that have guided his remarkable life.
Bob volunteered for the U.S. Army and was stationed in Europe, where, at just 28 years old, he managed transportation for a major depot in Germany. Following his service, he earned an MBA from Michigan State University, launching a long and distinguished career in international financial management. His global work gave Bob and his wife, Jane, a broadened awareness of human needs far beyond Michigan’s borders.
Upon retiring at age 60, Bob joined the International Executive Service Corps, serving in Czechoslovakia, where he helped local enterprises transition during a pivotal time in the country’s history. When he and Jane returned to the United States, they chose to put down roots in South Haven, where their passion for community and service flourished.
Bob often quotes author David Brooks, who defines a joyous life as one of “meaning and purpose.” Bob and Jane lived that philosophy wholeheartedly.
As Bob puts it:
“When you are young, your focus should be on family and building your resume — but in the latter part of life, you should complete the picture by giving back to your community through service.”
And since retirement to South Haven he has continued to give back and encourage others to join him. His wife Jane worked alongside up to her passing several years ago.
More than 30 years ago, Bob founded SHOUT for South Haven, a civic-minded organization devoted to enhancing the quality of life in the community. Under his leadership, SHOUT has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in private contributions, supporting projects such as bridge flowers, downtown sculptures, SHOUT Park, the Wilhelm Baum tugboat, signature street clocks, beach benches, and most recently, the winter fireplace in Dyckman Park.
SHOUT has also been the inspiration for many of South Haven’s cultural treasures — including the Summer Waterfront Concert Series, the Cottage Walk, the Performance and Theatre Series, and the South Haven Speakers Series.
The tangible results of Bob’s vision and leadership can be seen throughout South Haven. His influence reaches far beyond bricks and benches — it is felt in the civic pride, artistic vibrancy, and collaborative spirit that define the town today.
“Bob’s leadership and positive vision for South Haven have left a trail for future generations of community leaders to follow,” said Mayor Annie Brown. “He embodies the values of education, excellence, and service that this honor seeks to recognize.”
State Senator Aric Nesbitt (District 20) added, “Even at age 93, Bob continues to inspire those around him with his passion and unshakable belief in the power of community. His unique ability to merge vision with practical action has left a legacy that will benefit South Haven for generations.”
Bob Copping’s life is a shining example of how one person’s commitment to service can transform a community — and how the true measure of success is found not in what we gain, but in what we give.
The winners include:
Governor George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award: Robert Copping (South Haven)
Corporate Social Impact Award: Domino’s Pizza (Ann Arbor)
Excellence in Philanthropy: Otsego Community Foundation (Gaylord)
Older Adult Volunteer of the Year: John Richard Saxton (Blissfield)
Volunteer of the Year: Diana K. Deese (Saginaw), Judy Paulsen (Hartland)
Outstanding National Service Impact Award: Larry Friday (Norton Shores), BreAnna Lockhart (Detroit)
Youth Impact Award: Sue Schooner (Ann Arbor), Student Leader Fellowship Program (Marquette)
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Isabelle Bigelow (Livonia), Manya Tijoriwala (Canton)
Community Impact Award: NorthWest Initiative (Lansing)
The award recognition dinner will be held at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing on Wednesday November 12th.
