Lynda Louise Behunin Cope Obituary (1939

Lynda Louise Behunin Cope, 81, passed peacefully to the next life on October 4, 2020, in Provo, Utah. Lynda suffered most of her adult life with chronic pain issues. Born August 13, 1939 in Hollywood, California to Wilmer and Donelda (Faulkenberg) Behunin, she charmed everyone with her deep dimples, curly red hair and friendly disposition. A 'Hollywood star' from the start, she began singing on stages at the age of three. Lynda had the gift of a gorgeous voice which opened many doors for her. During her childhood she performed on stages throughout the Intermountain West. At eleven years old she became the soloist for her daddy's popular western band. Abundantly talented, she also played the piano, organ, guitar and ukulele. As a student at Dugway High School she excelled at everything she put her mind to. Academics, music, dance, speech contests, yearbook editor, horseback riding, swimming and was voted 'Miss Personality.' Lynda even became a skilled square dance 'caller' providing her services at various community events. At the age of eighteen she became a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. After winning many singing competitions, Lynda sang on television as a featured soloist on The Lawrence Welk Show. Music was her passion and she was always at her happiest when she was involved in a production. Lynda married William H. Cope III on July 30, 1958 in Evanston, Wyoming. Bill was serving in the military, later working as a meteorologist for the National Weather Service, which took their young family to different locations. They lived in Jacksonville, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Maui, Hawaii; Salt Lake City, Utah; Houston, Texas; eventually settling in Orem, Utah. Lynda enjoyed making each place a home and getting involved in the community. Lynda and Bill were blessed with 6 children. The family was sealed in the St. George Temple on October 13, 1962. Lynda and Bill divorced in 1988. Lynda was a great cook, made awesome fudge, loved gardening, creating art, and cross-stitching. An excellent seamstress, she even sewed her sons' suits for school dances. Lynda loved social gatherings and delighted in her annual Grandma Lynda's Christmas Eve. She was an amazing organizer and record keeper. For years she ran her husband's tax accounting business, and later used those skills as an office assistant for an accounting firm in Pleasant Grove, Utah. A life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lynda was a devout student of the scriptures. She loved to discuss the gospel of Jesus Christ and had a firm testimony. She served in various leadership callings, however, her favorites were always those involving music. Lynda loved attending the temple and missed it greatly when she was no longer physically able. Those waiting behind include her children; Bill (Trilby) Cope of Provo, Kenneth (Kathy) Cope of Salt Lake City, David (Judy) Cope of England, Catherine Cope of Salt Lake City, Erin (Cory) Pilbeam of Salt Lake City. Her brother Ron (Robyn) Behunin. 16 grandchildren. 12 great-grandchildren. Those preceding Lynda in death are her parents, brother Larry, son Bryan, step-mother Claire, step-brother Johnny, and former husband Bill. The family will hold private graveside services this Friday, October 9, 2020. Interment at Orem City Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at www.bergmortuary.com. We so appreciate the kindnesses to our mother and grandmother by the staff of Provo Assisted Living. Our gratitude also for the patient and professional care of First Choice Home Health & Hospice. Aloha 'Oe Mom! Until we meet again.