VERO BEACH, Fla. — Willis W. "Bill" Copeland, 95, departed his winter home in Vero Beach, Fla., on March 14, 2013, and join his beloved wife of 67 years, Ardith, who preceded him in death in March of 2009. He was born Dec. 21, 1917, in Traverse City, to Harry W. and Stella A. Copeland.
Bill was a retired conservation officer from the state of Michigan, a retired World War II U.S. Army veteran, a lifetime member of the Masonic Temple, the NRA and Ducks Unlimited.
He lived and traveled between his homes in Michigan, Alaska and Florida and enjoyed the outdoor life wherever he went.
He was preceded in death by his son, Rodney L. Copeland; and daughter-in-law, Louise B. Copeland.
He is survived by his son, William H. Copeland, of Valdez, Alaska; and daughters, Sue Copeland Armbruster, of Vero Beach, Fla., and Jan S. Copeland, of Guanajuato, Mexico. He had eight grandchildren, Amy, Kathryn, Peter, Bryan, Kelly, Katie, Krista and Ardea; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
His many friends and family were blessed with his constant example of kindness, gentleness and love toward all people and animals.