Gwinn––Martha E. Copley, 97, of Gwinn, entered eternal life Sunday, January 13, 2008.
Martha was born July 1, 1910 in Big Bay, a daughter of James V. and Ella Rose (Brabazon) Eakley, and spent her early years in Skandia on the family farm. She married Lawrence H. Copley on February 13, 1931 and they resided in Carlshend until moving to Gwinn in 1943. Martha worked as a cook in the logging camps where Lawrence was a logger. Martha learned the value of hard work and those traits continued throughout her lifetime. Believing breakfast to be the most important meal of the day, she began each day with oatmeal, juice, and coffee to maintain health and stamina. In her leisure, she enjoyed flower gardening, knitting, and reading her Bible.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence, in 1983; her son, William “Butch” Copley; sons-in-law, William Roos and James Ryan; a sister, Clara Riener; and brothers, Richard, Stephen, and Myron Eakley.
Survivors include four daughters, Elaine Roos, Marilyn Ryan, and Carol (Errol) Steen all of Gwinn, and Patricia (Arthur) Cheslog of Limestone, ME; four sons, Lawrence (Kathy) Copley of Gwinn, Earl (Gila) Copley of Colorado Springs, CO, Richard (Tana) Copley of Texas, and Robert (Paula) Copley of Iron Mountain; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and longtime friend, Linda Boogren of Gwinn. Martha touched the hearts of everyone she knew and will be missed by all.
The family will receive relatives and friends at the Gwinn United Methodist Church on Friday, January 18, beginning at 10:00 am. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 Friday morning with Rev. Geri Hamlen, pastor, officiating. A reception for family and friends will be held in the church fellowship hall. Inurnment will be made in the Forsyth Township Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Gwinn United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 354, Gwinn, MI 49841.