Vernon D. Copeland

Vernon David Copeland, 54, of Gaylord and formerly of Alpena, passed away at home on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 after a courageous, hard fought 21 month battle with cancer.

He was born in Alpena on October 13, 1964, the son of Lyle K. and Mabel (Nolan) Copeland. He was raised in Alpena and graduated from Alpena High School in 1982.

Vernon was a hard worker who followed in his father’s footsteps as a truck driver. He was employed by XPO Logistics for 28 years until complications from cancer forced him to retire in December 2018, leaving him just short of achieving 2 million safe driving miles.

He enjoyed camping, moose hunting and fishing in Canada, playing softball, going to the casino and spending time with his granddaughter, Kynsley. Despite battling cancer, he still went hunting in Canada last fall and was successful in harvesting a nice bull moose.

Surviving are his two daughters, Amanda (Jesse Lennier) Copeland and Piper Ousley; granddaughter, Kynsley Lennier; four siblings, Kenneth (Reva) Copeland, Constance Nolan, Joan (Lorne) Tangie and Sherri (George Hookimaw) Black; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceding him in death is his brother, Lyle L. Copeland.

A celebration of life will take place Saturday, October 12th, 2019 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Alpena Free Methodist Church. Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to benefit Kynsley, to: Amanda Copeland, 439 Ranch Road, Gaylord, MI 49735.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com