Gerald Dae Copeland

Gerald Dae Copeland, age 79, peacefully went home to his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 6, 2022. He was born in Forest City, Iowa, to Herbert Copeland and Bernice Thorsheim. He moved to Lee County in 1956 and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1961. Gerald was a proud Florida State Seminole, graduating with his Bachelor’s in Physical Education in 1968, and later earning his Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from Nova Southeastern University. On July 28, 1973, he embarked on what would be his greatest adventure, marrying the love of his life, Maureen Maguire. Together, they raised a beautiful family and built a legacy of compassion, service, and generosity.

The impact of Gerald’s legacy can be recognized far beyond his family, as he positively influenced the lives of thousands throughout his more than thirty-year career teaching Physical Education at Fort Myers Middle School and coaching track at Fort Myers High School. To this day, “Coach Copeland” couldn’t go out without being approached by a thankful student who recognized how his wisdom, patience, acceptance, motivating spirit, and PE Honors shirt system shaped their character.

Outside of the classroom, Gerald was an avid sports fan. Beyond his love of golf, fantasy football, and the Yankees and Seminoles, Gerald beamed with pride watching his grandchildren grow and explore. “Pa” was always there to teach them how to throw a ball, how to plant a garden, and how to love their family. He also shared with them his strong faith in the Lord and his love of serving his church.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Maureen; his children Christine (Michael) Christensen, Paul (Whitney) Copeland, and Timothy (Amanda) Copeland; and his six grandchildren: Aiden, Taylor, Chase, Riley, Jaxson, and Cameron. Gerald is also survived by his brother Michael (Shelley) Copeland and sister Colleen (Gary) Kekelis.

A funeral mass for Gerald will be held on Friday, April 22, 2022, at 10:30 AM at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord (8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, Florida 33919). In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Gerald’s name to the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Catholic Education fund.