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.