Rodney Lee Copeman

Rodney Lee Copeman, 76, of Chatfield, died Wednesday, June 10, 2015, at the Mayo Clinic Hospital - St.  Mary's Campus in Rochester.

Rodney “Rod” Lee Copeman was born on Monday, March 13, 1939 to Charles Levenous "Lee" and Louise S. (Drogemuller) Copeman.  A lifetime resident of Fillmore County, he graduated from Chatfield High School in 1957.  Rod had a love of the land and a strong work ethic that led to his career as a dairy farmer.

Rod was united in marriage with Roberta Ann Jefferis on March 20, 1960 (the first day of spring, and the anniversary of his parents and grandparents) at the Chatfield United Methodist Church. The couple was blessed with two daughters and one son.

Rod had a passion for sports; he enjoyed cheering the Twins, Vikings and Gophers.  He also enjoyed deer hunting and fishing.  Above all he loved spending time with his family and the great outdoors. He was a Root River Rabbits 4-H Leader, a pitcher for the State Line Fastpitch Softball League, and on the Chatfield Creamery Board.

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Roberta; three children, Elizabeth “Libby” (Jeff) Gould, of Sioux Falls, SD, Laurie Cox, of Plymouth, and Tom (Lori) Copeman, of Zumbrota; eleven grandchildren: Mallory, Maggie, Meridith, Madeline Gould; Theo, Talli, Taitum, Teigan Cox; Kye, Laiken, Cambryn Copeman; three brothers: Bill (Ruth) Copeman, John (Kathy) Copeman from Fountain, and Chuck (Liz) Copeman of Chatfield; and his sister, Linda (Jim) Whitcomb of Eyota; plus many cousins, nieces, nephews and family.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother, Myril Lee.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, June 15 at the Chatfield United Methodist Church, 124 Winona St SE, Chatfield, MN, with Rev. Debra Jene Collum officiating.

Visitation will be held Sunday, June 14 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the the Chatfield United Methodist Church, and one hour before the service at the church on Monday.

Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is assisting the family with arrangements.  507-867-4310.

To share any condolences with Rod‘s family please visit www.rileyfuneralhomes.com.

Florist Information:  Please deliver fresh flowers by 1:00 PM on Sunday directly to Chatfield United Methodist Church, 124 Winona St SE, Chatfield, MN.

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2015