Gardell (Butch) Vernon Cope Jr., 85, of Idaho Falls, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Lincoln Court Retirement Center. He was under the care of Solace Hospice.

Butch was born on October 14, 1939, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Gardell Vernon Cope Sr. and Mary Jane Nielsen Cope. He grew up in Mud Lake, Idaho, and graduated from West Jefferson High School in 1958.

On March 9, 2002, he married Judith Anne LaMay in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He had previously married Karen Morgan, and they later divorced. Judith and Butch blended their families and made one large family. He worked for Bingham Mechanical and Argonne National Laboratory.

He was a member of the Protestant Church. He belonged to the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He enjoyed camping and fishing, was a passionate golfer, and loved being with his family. His family said his favorite saying was "Say Good Night, Butch" as he walked out of the lodge. Everyone in the lodge would respond, "Good Night, Butch," as he left.

He is survived by his wife, Judith Cope of Idaho Falls, Idaho; son, Brian (Camille) Cope of Idaho Falls, Idaho; daughter, Jodie (Dewey) Chapman of Firth, Idaho; stepdaughters: Cynthia (Ron) Ascuena of Eagle, Idaho, and Sandy (Carter) Winters of Idaho/Texas; stepsons: Robin (Nancy) Stewart, Doug (Nancy) Stewart, and Ron (Wendy) Stewart all of Idaho Falls, Idaho; 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Mary Jane Cope; stepdaughter-in-law, Wendy Stewart; and stepson-in-law Ron Ascuena.

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m., October 18, 2025, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 237 N Water Ave., Idaho Falls. Inurnment will be at the Milo Cemetery. Cremation is under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com .