WORCESTER – Ronald G. Copeland, 84, formerly of Whipple Street, died peacefully on February 1, 2018, at Christopher House of Worcester, with his loving family by his bedside.
Ron was born in Worcester and raised in the Hadwen Park neighborhood, a son of the late Gordon and Gladys (Lier) Copeland. Ron spent his young years delivering newspapers to his neighbors, and then worked for the Wickwire family at Hadwen Park Market and at the Sorenson’s family auto repair garage, where Ron used the automotive education and skills acquired at Worcester Boys Trade. This laid the path for a lifelong career as an auto mechanic, working as a civilian for the Massachusetts Army National Guard, where he earned the rank of Sergeant, First Class . Ron, serving as the mechanic as well as a member of the guard unit for over 35 years, was always bringing up the rear of the convoy, ensuring that everyone made it to their drill destinations. Following his retirement, Ron worked as courier for the former WCIS and the Fallon Clinic.
While working as an usher as a young teenager at the Capitol Theater, Ron’s co-worker caught his eye. Soon he and the young woman, the former Carol “Penny” Jacobson, were dating and went on to marry and settle in the Quinsigamond Village area of the city. Ron and Penny began their family, and soon their two beautiful daughters arrived. He was devoted to his family, a trait that continued throughout his life. As a family, they enjoyed their special trips and vacations, especially to Dennisport on Cape Cod. Later, Ron and Penny purchased a summer spot in Wells, Maine, where he could be found riding his bike around the community every weekend.. He was a friend to many in the neighborhood, especially his “favorite girls”, Donna and Paula. After more than 60 years in Quinsigamond Village, Ron and Penny moved to the Christopher Heights community in Belmont Hill. Ron was a longtime active member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Worcester and the Olive Branch Lodge of Masons in Millbury.
Ron will be forever missed and loved by his beloved wife, Penny; his two daughters, Linda Regan of Maine and Beth Townsend and her husband, Robert of Millbury. He was the special “Papa” to his five grandchildren, Ben, Michael, Maggie, Robbie and Brian. He also leaves his brother, Steven Copeland of Auburn and his sister, Martha Flood of Worcester and several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Ron’s Life Celebration on Saturday, February 10th at 11 a.m. at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 200 Greenwood Street, Worcester. Burial in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton will private and at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church. Arrangements are in the care of the LINDQUIST-LUNDIN Funeral Home, 36 Butler Street, Worcester.