Wendy Johnson Coppock

Born in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Wendy’s early years were spent in Langruth, in the Big Point Icelandic Settlement district. Three of her four grandparents were Icelandic, thus providing many opportunities to embrace Icelandic family traditions. Taught by her Amma, Wendy endeavours to keep the stories alive and embrace the connection this creates.

Wendy became a member of Icelandic Roots in 2014 where she could research her ancestors. Two years earlier, she travelled with her family to Iceland where she felt a strong connection and wanted to know more. Her next two trips to Iceland were far more exciting armed with the knowledge from Icelandic Roots. Wendy was fortunate to have been a part of the Icelandic Roots 10-year Anniversary tour in September of 2023, her fourth trip to Iceland.

Wendy experienced a gratifying career in Public Education from first serving as a classroom teacher through to being a district level learning coordinator in early learning and literacy. She finished her career as a Director of Inclusive Learning Services. After 37 years, in August 2023, Wendy retired. She now works in Early Childhood Development. “Once a teacher, always a teacher,” she claims.

Wendy’s support comes from Tom, her husband of 32 years, and their three sons, Kelly, Riley, and Cutler. Wendy and Tom live on his 120-year-old family farm where two of their boys farm with them. Community connections are important to Wendy and her family and are involved in many of its activities.