Robert L. Copeland

Jan 12, 1921 - Dec 30, 2007

Robert L. Copeland, 86, of Birchwood Drive, Mishawaka, passed away on Sunday morning in his home. He was a South  Bend police officer for more than 20 years and then in 1969 became the Chief of Police for 10 years in Speedway, IN. Bob
retired in 1986 from the Indianapolis School for the Deaf after six years of service. He was born January 12, 1921, in South Bend, to the late Clifton and Louise (Pawell) Copeland Sr., and had lived in the Michiana area most of his life.

On May 1, 1942, in South Bend, he married Thelma Helmick Copeland, and after 54 years of marriage she preceded him in death on March 11, 1996.

One daughter survives, Jacqueline (Les) Williamson of South Bend; two grandchildren, Michelle (Tim) Collins of South Bend and Doug (Jennifer) Williamson of Mishawaka; and two great-grandchildren, Carson Collins and Norah Williamson.

Four brothers, Oliver, Walter, Richard and Clifton Copeland Jr., preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3, 2008, in Clay United Methodist Church North, on Ironwood. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger, IN. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. today in the Palmer Funeral Home, 2528 Mishawaka Ave., South Bend, IN 46615, where a Masonic service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friends may also call one hour prior to services in the church.

Mr. Copeland was a 50-year member of St. Joseph Lodge #45 F&AM, and was a lifetime member of Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of South Bend and the Avalon Grotto. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Police #36, past
president of the Indiana Association of Chiefs of Police and served in the United States Coast Guard during World War II.

Mr. Copeland graduated from Central High School in 1939.

Contributions in memory of Robert L. Copeland may be made to Clay United Methodist Church North

Source: FindAGrave.com

06/07/2025 EJS

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/96584787/robert-l-copeland