Bridget Van de Kop

Bridget Van de Kop, age 91, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, curiosity, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Born in 1935 in Spalding, England, Bridget was the daughter of Ronald and Mildred Couch. She began her career as an elementary school teacher before pursuing her passion for science by studying geology at the University of Cambridge. While living in England, Bridget met a handsome Dutch engineer, Franz Van de Kop. Their courtship lasted just thirteen dates before Franz was called away to work in the Arctic. Upon his return, they were married, beginning a loving partnership that spanned more than sixty-two years. Together they welcomed their daughter, Franziska, in England before moving to New York, where their son, Andrew, was born. Years later, Bridget, Franz, and Franziska proudly studied together and became citizens of the United States. Bridget had a gift for making ordinary moments special. She was known for her contagious laughter, her warm hospitality, and her favorite expression, "Marvelous." Friends and family enjoyed her fondue parties in the 1970s, her thoughtful tea breaks that reminded everyone to slow down, and the elaborate gingerbread houses she lovingly created each Christmas with her daughter. She found joy in gardening, especially growing tulips that reminded her of her English hometown, and she worked alongside her husband to plant a vineyard during their years in Louisiana. One of her favorite memories was watching a rocket launch at Cape Canaveral, an experience she loved describing as "feeling the rumble in your bones." Bridget's encouragement also played an important role in her family's future. Drawing on her background in geology, she inspired and supported her husband's pursuit of developing groundwater detection technology, believing in an idea that would later help families and communities locate one of life's most essential resources. In her later years, Bridget found great happiness playing bingo, where she formed lasting friendships and happily enjoyed winning one of her favorite indulgences - chocolate! Above all else, Bridget treasured friendship and family. She believed the greatest gift one person could give another was the gift of true friendship, and she lived that belief every day through her generosity, compassion, and joyful spirit. Bridget is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Franz Van de Kop, of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, her daughter, Franziska Shepard of Atlanta, Georgia, her son, Andrew (Teisha) Van de Kop of Meridian, Texas, her four cherished grandchildren, Andrew Ross Van de Kop II, Victoria (Britton) Van de Kop Jones, Sterling Shepard, Spencer Shepard, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness. A celebration of Bridget's life will be held on July 31, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Mt. Carmel Community in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Those wishing to honor Bridget's memory are encouraged to do so by sharing a cup of tea with a friend, enjoying a piece of chocolate, planting something beautiful, or simply taking time to appreciate the people they love. Bridget would surely have called that... "Marvelous.

Bridget Van de Kop

April 18, 1935 - July 28, 2026