Edwin E. "Ed" Copen

Edwin E.  "Ed"  Copen , age 76, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, died suddenly, May 24, 2016.

Ed was a retired laborer, who worked as a member of the Laborer's Union Local #134 out of Newcomerstown, Ohio.  He also served as the business agent for the union for many years. 

He was born July 4, 1939 in Burning Springs, West Virginia,  and was the son of the late Bertie G. and Flossie Belle Menefee Copen.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters.

He was well-known for the many hours he spent tending to the mules that he raised. Ed was drawn to any outdoor activity, including his work, his mules, and for many years, boating, hunting, and fishing, and most particularly, his hobby of gardening. Ed could be described as a "wheeler-dealer" who always kept himself busy.  He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.. 

He is survived by his wife Ilene Fowler Copen, whom he married July 28, 1961, a daughter Mrs.  Delana (Robert "Dan") VanFossen of New Philadelphia,  two sons Edward Copen  and Jason Ryan Copen, both of New Cumberland, Ohio, three brothers, two sisters, four grandchilden and two great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, June 1, 2015 in the New Cumberland Cemetery with Rev. John Dunn officiating.  The Baxter-Gardner Funeral Home at Sherrodsville is handling arrangements. Memorial contributions in Ed's memory may be made to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County,  716 Commercial Avenue S.W.,  New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. To leave an online condolence message please visit the funeral home website.

Baxter-Gardner
(740) 269-9225
www.baxtergardner.com

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