Ken Copeland passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 26, surrounded by the love of his family. He is survived by his best friend and wife Cheryl, his daughter Tara, and sons Cale (Melissa, Caden and Taia), Evan and Roarke , and siblings Roy, Sandra and Lynne, as well as numerous in-laws and outlaws.

 Ken was born on September 7, 1940, in the basement of a hospital in London, England at the end of a doodlebug during the London Blitz. He served his apprenticeship on the London Docks, becoming a fitter/machinist. Ken lived and worked in Paris and South Africa, and then for the British Merchant Marines and American Merchant Marines, travelling to South America and Asia. He finally immigrated to Canada in 1968, and worked in Toronto, Dawson Creek, Prince Rupert and New Westminister. Ken worked for many years as a Millwright, within a union or as part of a management team. He always had a passion for fairness and people. In 1976, he received his diploma from BCIT for Business Administration, majoring in Personnel and Industrial Relations. In 1981, began his 21-year career with the Ministry of Labour, working as an Industrial Relations Officer.

 Ken took his work very seriously and prided himself on being objective and fair. He loved being of service and to helping those in need.  However, his love for his job was eclipsed by his passion for his family. No matter how busy he was, Ken always made time for award ceremonies, track meets, concerts and plays. Ken loved to chat and was an amazing storyteller and conversationalist. More importantly, he loved to listen.

 Despite his charm and outgoing demeanor, Ken was actually a very private man and he requested that there be no funeral. Our family will be honoring his wishes. 

 If you wish to honor Ken, please raise your glass…or your coffee mug to him. He’ll be smiling down on you.

 Our family is forever grateful to Dr. Janusz, Dr. Fike, Dr. Mahmood, and Dr. Muhammad for their care of Ken, as well as all the wonderful doctors, nurses and R.T.s at R.I.H. during Ken’s recent stays. We also thank Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services for their compassion at this time. 

 We wish everyone a little piece of the happiness that Ken brought to our family. He will be cherished forever.

• Date : 2016-05-26
• Location : Kamloops, B.C.