Mearl Ivan Copeland

Mearl Ivan Copeland passed away on Christmas day at the age of 84.  His kin survivors are his two sisters, Billie Adams and Vada Dibrell. Mearl also leaves behind a daughter named Cathy Parker and husband, Bill Parker, along with grandson, Michael Vick and wife, Katie Vick. Mearl’s last remaining relative is a great-granddaughter named Lilith Hope Vick who named him “Pepaw

” in his final days.

Born on Feb. 3, 1927, in the small town of Dale, Texas, he was the first and only son to William Reuban Copeland and Pattie Dora Cook. As a child, Mearl was known as a builder, prankster and a bit of thrill seeker. It was a young driven high schooler who enlisted early in the Navy to serve his country in one of the largest turning points in American history.

After returning from WWII, Mearl courted and soon married Lillian Mae Barth. Some of his most fond memories were his travels in the oil field with his wife along his side. Together they raised a loving only child with many fond memories of fishing, camping, gardening and even bottle hunting. It wasn’t long before his favorite past times were shared with his grandson. Special times were spent with old war buddies.

He leaves a legacy of fond memories cherished by all that he encountered. Something about Mearl’s gentle smile touches more than he ever knew. Nurses, care-takers, old friends, and loved ones are blessed to have known him. His final days were spent getting to know his great-grandaughter, as he childishly giggled at the chance to give her a cookie. It has been said that it was Lilith who gave him his last breath of fresh air. He was fortunate to have known Lilith as well as she was in return. For, she not only knew who her Pepaw was, but also that she loved him.

A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at the Lockhart City Cemetery, Lockhart, Texas with Rev. Wayne Walther officiating. Serving as pallbearers were: Bill Parker, Michael Vick, Brad Dibrell, Ricky Howerton, Kevin Koch, David Reed, and Chris K .

All arrangements with Eeds Funeral Home, 408 S. Main St., Lockhart, Texas 78644. (512)  398-2343.