With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Dale G. Coppins, who passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, at the age of 79. Born in Syracuse, New York on September 2, 1946, Dale was a true New Yorker through and through-unapologetically blunt, fiercely independent, and armed with a gruff exterior that couldn't quite hide his massive heart.

Dale spent his working years as a dedicated propane semi-truck driver. While he took great pride in his hard work on the road, his true passions lay in exploring the past. He was a lifelong history buff and an avid treasure hunter, always searching for hidden pieces of the world's story.

From 1967 to 1969, Dale honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. A highly decorated soldier, he was awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his extraordinary bravery. While our father kept quiet about his actions, his family proudly shares the story of his heroism today. During intense combat, Dale was shot in both legs. Despite the severe pain of a bullet still burning in his leg, he refused to retreat, holding off the enemy so his entire platoon could escape. He was prepared to die for his brothers in arms that day, but was pulled from the line of fire by a nameless fellow soldier. Our mother, Theresa Smith, always revered that mystery soldier as an angel sent to bring him home.

Those who knew Dale best will remember him as a man who was generous to a fault, always willing to give whatever he had to someone in need. He was a loving father who measured his life not by his formal achievements, but by the love and happiness of his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his children Daila Coppins, Dale Coppins Jr, Breann (Zach) Morris, Tessa (Matt) Whitlow, grandchildren (Annie and Jonathan Crow), and sister (Tina Aliotta). He was preceded in death by Irene Aliotta, Salvatore Aliotta, William Coppins, Dana Coppins, and Pam Sweeney. Services will be held on May 29, 2026 at French Funerals and Cremations - Westside at 9300 Golf Course Rd NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87114. Burial will immediately follow at Sunset Memorial Park at 924 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87107. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude in his memory