Senate Resolution No. 165

BY: Senator MAY

MOURNING the death of John P. Copanas, dedicated
public servant, and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, John P. Copanas of Syracuse, New York, died on Thursday,
November 24, 2022, at the age of 65; and

WHEREAS, A proud graduate of Nottingham High School and LeMoyne
College, John P. Copanas worked for the City of Syracuse for over 40
years; he served as City Clerk for 30 years, and held the position of
Deputy Commissioner of both the Department of Public Works, and of
Aviation; and

WHEREAS, John P. Copanas distinguished himself in his profession and
by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of
his community; and

WHEREAS, Possessing a great depth of knowledge surrounding
Syracuse's history and laws, John P. Copanas was renowned by Council
members for his meaningful advice and guidance regarding the passage of
legislation and handling constituent concerns; and

WHEREAS, A man of loyalty and principle, John P. Copanas was vital
to the successes and growth of the City of Syracuse and its operations;
and

WHEREAS, John P. Copanas' commitment to excellence, and his spirit
of humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise, including
charitable and civic endeavors; and

WHEREAS, In 2011, when same-sex marriage was legalized in New York,
John P. Copanas opened Syracuse City Hall on a Sunday to begin granting
marriage licenses as soon as possible; and

WHEREAS, Loyal to his City, John P. Copanas was an avid fan of
Syracuse University basketball and football; he loved taking care of
animals and also enjoyed the city's parks, Syracuse Stage, and other
local theaters; and

WHEREAS, John P. Copanas is survived by his brother, George Copanas,
as well as his uncle, Dean Vlassis (Dodie), and numerous beloved cousins
and friends; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, John P. Copanas leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of John P. Copanas, dedicated public servant, and
devoted member of his community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of John P. Copanas.