Robert Copeland
April 17, 1937 – June 13, 2022
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, June 17, 2022, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral service to honor his life will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, June 18, 2022, beginning at 11:00 AM. Interment will be held at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Lung Association, c/o the funeral home. Friends and family may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.
Obituary
Age 85, passed away at his home on June 13, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Kalamazoo on April 17, 1937, the son of the late Clair and Grace (Prindle) Copeland. Bob was a kind man with a generous spirit and great sense of humor. He loved life and lived it to the fullest. Bob was a hard worker who retired from Checker Motor Company after thirty-seven years. Never one to slow down, together with his wife Mary, he operated a child daycare for several years where he would become known as “Grandpa Bob or Bobby”. When not working he enjoyed spending time at his home where all were made to feel welcome. He was passionate about auto racing and was an involved figure at the Kalamazoo Motor Speedway. He loved being outdoors and was an avid deer hunter who always looked forward to his annual trip up north for deer camp. Above all, Bob loved his family and friends. He was especially proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and leaves them with the legacy of a life well lived. On April 21, 1988, he married the love of his life Mary Etta (Hambright) Copeland who survives. He is also survived by two children, Ruthann (Kevin) Norton, Debra Werner; three stepchildren, Deborah Lee, Julie (Russ) Sutton, John (Teresa) Lee; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren; sister, Marsha Jowers; nieces, nephews and friends. He was also preceded in passing by two sons, Bobby and Kevin Copeland; stepdaughter, Pamela Cordray and three siblings, Colleen, Janet and Richard.
Mary and family, Prayers for strength and healing as you move through this difficult time. I hope you find peace in knowing that Bob was a kind, gentle man who was loved by many. I know the kids loved going to the house for daycare felt like family when they were there. He was a special man and will be missed. Love to all, Mulder Family
Worked with Bob for many years. Always got along with Bob and had many good laughs and memories. Rest in peace Bob !
My heartfelt condolences go out to Mary & the rest of Bob’s family. My daughter & grandson are several of the MANY children who loved going to see Grandma Mary & Grandpa Bob! The daycare was pure love & acceptance and every child who went through their doors felt loved and safe. There were many times, as a single mom working to keep bills paid when I would take an extra shift in the ER or have an out of town presentation….. Mary & Bob were always willing to step up and be that family support we all need!! Bob was always running this child to dance…..this one to sports….. & even drove some of the kiddos to school & back because he knew they were having trouble riding the buss! Bob always had a smile on his face, even when you knew he was hurting….. he also could make everybody feel like they were the most important person in the world! My grandson remembers how nice he was & how he used to tickle him & make him Mac & cheese. He was a good man that will be missed! May you rest in Heaven Bob and may all that loved him hold the great memories close at heart until we meet again! God Bless ✝️🙏🏾♥️✝️🙏🏾♥️✝️🙏🏾♥️ Brenda Terburg, Heather & Jeremiah Mickaels