John Anthony Coplen, born on April 8, 1950, in Lima, Ohio, to Olaf and Elizabeth (Bessie) Coplen, peacefully passed away on October 13, 2023, in Madison, Alabama, surrounded by family.
John’s unwavering love for family and friends was the driving force behind his vibrant spirit. He found joy in Elvis, the Beach Boys, hot rods, dancing, cigars, and the art of preparing a hearty family dinner, capable of brightening even the darkest days.
He attended Saint Leo College in Florida and served as a County Commissioner in Allen County, Ohio, later transitioning his skills into a successful career in commercial real estate, which he pursued from 1981 until his passing.
John is preceded in death by his parents, Bessie and Olaf, and his brother, Walt. He was devoted to his wife, Linda Coplen, for 50 years. His cherished children, Christie (Tim Martin) Coplen, John Coplen, Collins (Sarah) Coplen, and Anna (Neil) Spear, carry on his legacy. He is also survived by his sister, Elise Goodman. John’s spirit lives on in his eight adoring grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 18th, 2023, from 10:30 am to Noon at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church in Madison, Alabama, followed by a mass from Noon to 1:00 pm. Interment will immediately follow the mass at Maple Hill Cemetery. A Celebration of Life event will be held at Cliff Cove Clubhouse, 201 Veranda Dr, Madison, AL 35758.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly requests donations for the Catholic Campus Ministry at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAHCCM), supporting college-age students in the Huntsville area. Donations can be made online at Donations can be made online at: https://giving.parishsoft.com/app/Form%2Faa23ae6c-30c4-41b5-be7f-bc85a9330d2f or via check, payable to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, with “UAH Catholic Center” in the memo, and mailed to: St. John The Baptist Catholic Church, 1055 Hughes Rd, Madison, AL 35758.
