W Bro Bernard Raymond Coppen

It is with great sadness that I have to report the passing to the Grand Lodge Above of W Bro and Comp Bernard Raymond Coppen, aged 72 years. Bernard was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer only two weeks ago.

Bernard was the secretary of Bedford Castle Lodge No. 6124, a member of the Bedfordshire Lodge of Installed Masters No. 7301 and Russell Chapter No. 4413.

He was also very active as a Mark mason, being a member of Sir John Cotton Lodge of MMM and a current acting provincial officer. Bernard was a 5th Dan Karate instructor and was the IPM of the Shotokan Karate Lodge No. 9752 which meets at Great Queen Street.

Bernard was well known and liked across Bedfordshire and beyond, out thoughts are with his family – particularly his brother Barry who is the Almoner of the Bedford Castle Lodge.

As always I will be sending a card of condolence on behalf of the PGM and Brethren of the Province.

Yours,

Tony Green, Pr G Almoner