Richard Lewis Copeland

Richard Lewis Copeland, age 87, of Granger, WA passed away on Wednesday, November 16, 2016 at his home in Granger. Richard was born May 30, 1929 to Walter Copeland and Doris Dickerson in Valentine, Nebraska. Richard attended high school in Sioux City, Iowa. In 1946 at the age of seventeen he joined the U.S. Army where he served his country until 1953. Upon Richard’s return to civilian life he joined his father Walter in farming in the Yakima Valley. He farmed many crops but was most proud of being a Welch grower. Richard married Marion Doyle September 18, 1977 in Sunnyside. They were happily married for 38 years. Richard was an avid outdoorsman, from hunting in the high cascades, to fishing at Discovery Bay. He was most at home in the outdoors. During his later years his greatest pleasure was snow-birding to Kino Bay, Mexico. He also enjoyed visiting and fishing with friends. Richard was highly involved (beginning in 1952) in activities as a member of the Masons and Shriners. He proudly rode in the Masada Mounted Patrol. Richard was also a past master of the Granger and Sunnyside Lodges. He attended the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Sunnyside, unless the Seahawk game started at 10:00.

Richard is lovingly remembered by his children Mark (Barbara) Copeland, Julie (Ken) Barrows, Cynde Copeland, David (Bonnie) Copeland and Jeffery Copeland as well as step children Ron (Carol) Carlquist, Cindy (Bob) Austin, Cheryl (Del) Miles and Mickie Mahaffy. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and his only sister Marna Sammuels of Sioux City, Iowa. He is preceded in death by his parents Walter Copeland and Doris Dickerson, brother Conrad Copeland, infant son Gregory and his loving wife Marion Copeland.

Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Sunnyside, WA.  Inurnment service will follow in the church court yard conducted by Sunnyside Masonic Lodge #138 and Military Honors by Lower Valley Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors.  Those wishing to sign Richard’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home in care of arrangements. 

 Service Information