Stanley J. Copeland passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, in Exeter, California, joining his beloved wife Carol in the heavenly reunion he so eagerly anticipated. Born in Ringling, Oklahoma, on April 4, 1940, to John Copeland and Artie May Burris, Stan’s life was characterized by steadfast duty, a deep love for family and music, and unwavering loyalty.
The Copeland family migrated to California when Stan was a young boy. He attended school in Turlock and graduated from Turlock High School in 1957. He cherished the lifelong friendships he maintained with his elementary school pals, and even weeks before his passing, he could often be heard chatting, laughing, and reminiscing with his lifelong buddies over the phone.
After high school, Stan served his country as a PFC MP in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Korea from 1958 to 1961. He dedicated his professional life to public service, working as a USDA Meat Inspector from 1966 until his retirement in 2021. Stan was an active and formidable advocate within the American Federation of Government Employees, serving as Sergeant at Arms, Vice President, and President for Local 0988. His dedication was such that even after retiring, he was called upon to serve his union once more. He maintained close friendships with many of his union brothers and sisters.
Stan’s passion for football was undeniable; he was a loyal Oklahoma Sooners and San Francisco Forty-Niner fan who never missed a game. He and his son Jr. watched every OU game together, and when they weren’t side-by-side, Stan was loudly commentating through Jr.’s cell phone about bad calls and "lousy refs."
Music was another joy in Stan’s life. He was especially fond of Doo-Wop, Big Band Swing, and Motown. His music room, equipped with a juke box and countless albums, cassette tapes, and CDs, was one of his favorite places to relax. Stan also enjoyed watching classic Westerns and collecting memorabilia of all sorts.
Above all, Stan loved God and found comfort in his faith in the last years of his life. He loved his family deeply, and they loved him in return. His quiet strength, enduring loyalty, and gentle spirit will be profoundly missed.
Stan is survived by his children, Stanley Jr., Monica Moreno, and Norme Walstad; sister, Joyce Copeland of South Carolina; 17 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Carol Copeland.
Services are planned for December 12, 2025 at Palm Memorial-Kerman Chapel in Kerman, CA, visitation begins at 10:00 am with Services at 11:00 am with Graveside Services following at Fresno Memorial Gardens.
