Honor John F. Copeland

1969 graduate of Arcade Central School; and WHEREAS, John F. Copeland received an associate degree in Criminal Justice from Genesee Community College while proudly serving his country as a member of the United States Army from 1969 to 1971; and WHEREAS, In a career which traversed more than three decades, John F. Copeland served as a Deputy Sheriff, Road Patrol Captain and Undersheriff for the Wyoming County Sheriff's Department; he was an active member of the Wyoming County Sheriff's Mounted Unit, serving as its Captain for several years; and WHEREAS, John F. Copeland was elected Supervisor for the Town of Wethersfield in 2003, the esteemed position he faithfully served until his death; and WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his community, John F. Copeland was Chair of the Public Safety Committee for the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, as well as a member of the Arcade VFW and the Eagle Post and Strykersville Post American Legion; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, he was a Board member of the North American Police Equestrian Council and enjoyed horseback riding and hunting; and WHEREAS, John F. Copeland is survived by his wife, Jackie (Cooper) Copeland whom he married on August 28, 1991; three children, Shannon Copeland, Shane Copeland and Eric Peet; and three siblings, Diana Mayer, David (Robin) Copeland and Eleanor (Tom Matthews) Copeland; as well as several nieces and nephews; and WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of compassion, John F. Copeland leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of John F. Copeland, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of John F. Copeland.