Condolences

• 09/03/2024

  Earl and Arlene Higgins

  We send our deepest symphony and condolences to you and Lou. Jim Higgins called us and told us of your tagedy. We are so sorry and thinking about you right now. Earl and Arlene

• 09/03/2024

  David Goerig

  To the family: You are in my thoughts and prayers during this time of loss. To Chris: Thank you for being yourself. Thank you for being a friend.

• 09/03/2024

  Linda Basye

  To Chris' family, this is such a shock as you struggle to understand why. I knew Chris for but a few short years, and knew him to always be gracious and fair, an advocate for his community, and an avid biker. But the one thing more important for his parents to remember, they can be proud for the good man that he was. My sincere condolences, my prayers and my thoughts are with you.

• 09/03/2024

  Greg Grunewald

  Doc, Jo, Kim, Jeff and families my deepest sorrow. My prayers will include you all. It is very hard for me to realize my college roomate has passed on. I still tell the high school story of how it took Chris and I 10 seconds to park his MG and my Spitfire side by side in your garage one night. Only to take two hours to figure how to get them out the next day! Please take care, and God Bless!

• 09/03/2024

  Pam Zimmerman Blackwell

  To the Copelands, So very sorry about Chris. I always read the Harrison weekly paper to see if his name was in it. He seemed to be so important to that area. I went to school with Jeff, Chris was in my sister's class (Denise). He was so young also.

• 09/03/2024

  Shawn & Pam (Shambaugh) Geary

  To the Copeland Family: We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Chris was a great guy and a friend since grade school. The loss of a son is too great to bear. Our prayers are with you all. God Bless.

• 09/03/2024

  Jeannie (Zook) West

  I'm so sorry to hear about Chris. I can remember sitting with him, Jeff and Kim many years ago. I pray God gives you strength in you time of sorrow.

• 09/03/2024

  Board and Staff of the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio

  We were so very sorry to hear of Chris' passing and extend to all members of his family, our deepest condolensces. He was an energetic and thoughtful participant during his tenure on the Foundation's board. He will be deeply missed by all.

• 09/03/2024

  Paul Labovitz

  Its hard to imagined Ohio without Chris. Our paths crossed on the Rails to Trails Board, we became friends and conspiritors from there. His great sense of humor coupled with his uncanny skill of making things happen in difficult times and in difficult places has left Ohio a better place. Chris could have plied his talents anywhere and he chose his home in Ohio.....lucky for all of us. It's impossible to believe this terrible news. I'm glad to have known him. Think of Chris when you see a kid riding and smiling along the trails he helped create. I hope his family knows how important his contributions mean to us all.

• 09/03/2024

  Kay Keyser-Sedgmer

  What a unique person the world has lost. Chris and I would talk often about Harrison County and I know he loved this area. He was truly a blessing to all who knew him. With great sympathy, Kay

• 09/03/2024

  Dennis and Helen Hawkins

  Helen and I were deeply sorry to hear about Chris. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. The Copeland house was a second home for me growing up in Bloomingdale. I have many many happy memories of times spent with Chris and Jeff.

• 09/03/2024

  Bill Kidder

  Please accept my deepest condolences. Doc and Mrs. C, as your heart cries and tears flow down your face, know that Chris was a son you have every right to be proud of. My memories of Chris as a leader in his youth -- scouts, church, school... and now, reading about them in the nation, state and region--- know that he impacted many and left a mark--- a legacy. God Bless you and your family.....thank you for having shared your home and family with me years ago. Neither Chris nor you will be forgotten. He made a difference; you taught and inspired him with strong values and love. He made a difference with what you used to mold him. The love does not go away, either; let it surround you now.

• 09/03/2024

  Marjie DeFede

  My deepest condolences to the family. Chris and I went to high school together, and recently re- connected when, as a member of the local news media, I was covering the Silver Spade project in Harrison County, and Chris was there to cheer on the volunteers who were working so hard to save the shovel. We continued to talk by phone and I looked to him many times for the best information about what was going on in Harrison County. He was sweet, kind, so smart, and so committed to our area. I deeply regret that we won't have a chance to grow our friendship for a second time. That will have to wait. See you in another life, my friend.....

• 09/03/2024

  Claryne & Sandy Berman

  Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sorrowful time. May you find comfort in knowing that friends care. May Chris rest in peace

• 09/03/2024

  John & Jonett Haberfield

  Condolences on your loss. I remember Chris from Bloomingdale and my wife was an assoiciate in the Economic Development/Tourism world of Appalachian Ohio.

• 09/03/2024

  Clark Graebel

  My name is Clark Graebel. I went to grad school with Chris at Trinity University. I golfed with him and about anything else we could do. Was Chris in an accident? Chris was a good friend to the whole class. We took a few trips to Shiner, TX and Lukenbach. I offer my condolences to his family. He sure left a good mark on my life. Sincerely, Clark Graebel Lewiston, Idaho

• 09/03/2024

  Shellie Pruden

  My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time. His tragic and untimely death is a great loss to us all. I'll greatly miss my friend.

• 09/03/2024

  Mark and Darlene Phillips

  Chris was a great friend to many of us in high school. I had the privilege of crossing paths with Chris several times over the next 20 years and Chris motivated me to pursue my dream of law school at a time when I may have lost my focus. We will miss Chris and his cheerful smile - and his gentle "jabs" at all alike. To Chris: best wishes on a quick journey. Salude! To the Copeland family: continue to be proud of Chris. Thank you for allowing us to share in his memories.

• 09/03/2024

  Spike & Donna Hill

  Dear "Copelands". Sitting here in our hotel room in Fostoria Ohio, we were so very shocked and saddened at reading of Chris's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of your family members.

• 09/03/2024

  National Park Service RTCA

  Deepest sympathy to friends and family of Chris. He was a good partner in many projects from our Ohio Field Office

• 09/03/2024

  T.J. Justice

  I express my deepest sympathy to Chris's family. As the former director of the Governor's Office of Appalachia, I had the pleasure of working with Chris in the fields of economic development and health care. He served on the Appalachian Healthy Living Task Force and was unbelievably smooth and professional. Chris liked to stop in Coshocton in recent months on his way home. I enjoyed spending time with him at the Warehouse in Roscoe Village where we always had some good laughs. Chris was always a pleasure to be around and a lot of fun. I miss Chris as a friend and the region will miss his contributions to travel and tourism, economic development and health care. Thank you for your friendship Chris - I really miss you.

• 09/03/2024

  Bill Huss

  Mrs. Copeland -- Thanks so much for taking time to talk to me by phone last Sunday. I know this must be a very difficult time for you and your family. Chris was a good friend and valued supporter of the Farm Foundation that owns my family's historic farmstead. I always looked forward to coming town and visiting with Chris. He had an incredible sense of humor and a strong desire to help the people of Harrison County. I could always count on him to know what was going on around town and to identify any opportunities to use the old farm for the public good. I will miss him greatly.

• 09/03/2024

  Paul E. Golliher, Ph. D

  To Chris' Family: Please accept my deepest and heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your son and brother. Chris was a student of mine at Trinity University and I met some of you when I visited him during his administrative residency at the hospital in Steubenville. He later was president of our Alumni Association and I saw him many tiimes during those years. I shall miss him greatly. He was one of my favorites and he arranged my retirement party here in San Antonio while he was alumni president. Both Judy and I visited him later out on Tappan Lake. We will never forget him! Paul Paul

• 09/03/2024

  Darrin Lautenschleger

  To the family: Please accept my condolences on the untimely passing of Chris. I was acquainted with Chris through the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District. A staunch supporter of the MWCD and Harrison County, I found Chris to be a man of solid character with a true drive to improve the lives and condition of Harrison County and the region. He will greatly be missed. It's not enough to say thanks to him for all that he did for the MWCD and Harrison County.

• 09/03/2024

  Tappan Marina

  We were all very sorry to hear about Chris. He will be sadly missed in the community. Dick & Sandy Henry Gary & Cathy Cramblett

• 09/03/2024

  Connie Cline Crawford

  Joann and Lou I am so sorry to hear about Chris we will all remember him from school. I remember him as a kid when i stayed at my grandmother's Ruth (Leas) Ralston's house. My prayers and thoughts are with all your Family at this time.

• 09/03/2024

  Gary James Mansfield

  To the family and friends of Chris I offer my heart felt condolences. Chris was truly a unique, and extremely intellegent young man, and I always enjoyed our conversations together. He will be missed by all.

• 09/03/2024

  Gerri

  Dear Lou, Jo, Jeff and Kim, I just received the phone call and was shocked to hear about Chris. We go back a long ways and I still have fond memories of those times. I am so sorry for your loss. Love, Gerri

• 09/03/2024

  Theresa and Joe Hamrock

  Dear Kim, Jeff, Steve and Caitlin: Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. We offer our sincere sympathy.

• 09/03/2024

  Marcia Bedway

  There is so much to grieve for losing Chris - friend, advocate, wit, intelligence. He will be sorely missed; in ways we don't even realize yet. My sincere condolences to his family.

• 09/03/2024

  Chuck and Candy Newburn

  To The Copeland family. My heart goes out to you. I can hardly recall a memory growing up without Chris somewhere playing a part in it. He was somehow always there when you needed him. He will be greatly missed. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. Candy

• 09/03/2024

  Rick, Connie, Steve and Elizabeth Spencer

  We were all saddened to hear of Chris' passing. We all have fond memories of the Labor Day trips to see "Mr. Chris" in Ohio. Steve and Ellie especially remember the bad business deal Chris made when he offered them 5 cents each to pick up pine cones out of his yard. $30 later we had to make them stop before they broke the bank. The other great story was when Chris sent us pictures of the frozen lake and Steve and Ellie would not believe they were real. Growing up in Houston they couldn't imagine a lake freezing. We had wonderful times at the lake house. Mr. Chris was always the perfect host and we will all miss him greatly. Sincerely, The Spencers

• 09/03/2024

  Alan & Nancy Van Curen

  To all Chris' family & friends ~ Chris was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by many folks here in Harrison County. We worked with him on a couple of barn projects as wells as Art auctions for the OU Extension and 4-h endowment funds, and we know his heart was in helping others. I was sick when I drove by the accident, and truely hoped it wasn't his vehicle I saw. Our deepest condolences go out to all of you.

• 09/03/2024

  Dennis Dunn

  This is shocking news. Chris will be missed and in my thoughts. I will pass this along to the Wood Lucksinger alum at VE. Dennis C. Dunn Vinson & Elkins, LLP

• 09/03/2024

  Lil Ferguson

  Dear Jo and Lou Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your beloved son. It's a loss no parent should have to bear. My prayers are with you.

• 09/03/2024

  Todd Patterson

  You have my deepest sympathy, Chris was a great friend and neighbor. I really enjoyed our bike rides on the Trail.

• 09/03/2024

  Terri Antill

  Kim, I am sorry for your loss and so very shocked. He loved you and your kids so much. We had many conversations about his love for your family. I had such a good experience working with him -such a smart man. What a loss.

• 09/03/2024

  Jim Bates

  I knew Chris through the MWCD DAC. We had some very good talks about the District as well as Chris's other interest. I was shocked to hear of his passing and I know that he will be sadly missed buy a multitude of friends and relatives.

• 09/03/2024

  Herb & Susie Hulls

  As members of the Buckeye Trail Association, we have lost a trusted and loyal friend. Chris was a former trustee of our association and continued to offer advice whenever needed. He followed our activities closely and attended when he could. We will miss his wit and cheerful smile. We are deeply sorry for your loss of this wonderful and thoughtful person.

• 09/03/2024

  Bill Gotschall

  As the Governor's Regional Representative in east central Ohio I had many occassions to work with Chris. I admired his professionalism and grasp of area economic development. He was dedicated to his community, a hard worker, well respected and most of all a good friend. I will miss him. My heartfelt condolence to the family.

• 09/03/2024

  Gloria Doban

  Jo & Lou, I know how proud you were of your son and how loss stings. Be thankful for and remember the joy he brought. You are in my prayers. Kim & Jeff & family, You are in my thoughts and prayers, and will be.

• 09/03/2024

  Scott Blackburn and Family

  To: Chris Copeland Family and Friends, Our family offers you our heartfelt sympathies. It was a pleasure knwoing and working with Chris. He was always willing to help out and offer his assistance. The thing that impressed me most about Chris, were the things that he did behind the scenes that very few people knew about. Chris will be missed more than you know. To Chris I wish Godspeed.

• 09/03/2024

  Carolyn J. Wiley

  Lou, Jo, and Family: I am so saddened about Chris's sudden death. Chris was such an educated young man with many accomplishments in his short life. His passing will create a deep void in the leadership of Harrison County. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. You can certainly be proud of Chris and his many successes. I can't imagine how difficult it must be for you to bury a child. You have my deepest sympathy. I will keep your entire family in my prayers and I pray that you will be able to take comfort in the celebration of Chris's successful life. Please let Kim and Jeff know that I sent a note. In heartfelt sadness, Carolyn Fierbaugh-Wiley (Cousin)

• 09/03/2024

  J.D. and Beth Epstein

  Chris was an excellent lawyer, but even a better person. We enjoyed greatly our days together at Wood, Lucksinger and Epstein and Chris will be missed by all he touched. Our sincerest condolences to his parents and the rest of his family. JD and Beth

• 09/03/2024

  Patty (hawkins)Felmet

  Dear lou, Joann, Kim and Jeff, Mom called me yesterday and told me about Chris, I can't tell you how sorry I am. Chris was a great person and he loved his family. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Patty

• 09/03/2024

  Mary Parks, Denny and Family

  To JoAnn, Lou, Jeff, Kim and family. So sorry to hear of your loss, our deepest sympathy is extended to you all.

• 09/03/2024

  Francine Taylor

  Chris and I worked together through his employment with Harrison Co. and mine with the State of Ohio. He had a wonderful spirit and a great sense of humor. We were good friends. I will miss him greatly. Most sincere condolences to his family.

• 09/03/2024

  Robert Pond

  Chris was a generous public servant. I enjoyed his wise comments in many board meetings of the Buckeye Trail Assoc. His leadership will be greatly missed.