Dick L Copeland

Dick L. Copeland, born July 19, 1931, in Payne, Idaho, was called to his eternal home on November 14, 2025, in Pocatello, Idaho.

Dick was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was marked by love, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to his family. His passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of his loved ones, friends, and the many others whose lives he touched. We ask that he be remembered not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived—and for the lasting impact he had on all who knew him.

Though born in Payne, Dick was raised in Salmon, Idaho, where his family homesteaded along Geertson creek in a small cabin. He and his five siblings grew up during a time before modern conveniences, often relying on his horse, Booger, to get around. Yet for Dick, these challenges were never inconveniences—only opportunities to learn, grow, and embrace the world around him.

After graduating from high school, Dick returned to the family farm in Idaho Falls, where he first laid eyes on the love of his life, Teresa. They married just two weeks after meeting, beginning a partnership that would endure for 72 extraordinary years. Shortly after their wedding, Dick was deployed to Germany, where he proudly served his country. In time, Teresa joined him overseas, and together they explored Europe. It was during these early years that they began building the family they cherished so deeply. They were blessed with four children, followed by many grandchildren who continued to fill their lives with joy.

When not with his family, Dick dedicated himself to his work with the Idaho Department of Transportation. He spent 35 years contributing to the state’s highway system and finished his career as the resident engineer and played a key role in developing several rest areas along southeastern Idaho’s major interstates—places many still use today.

Family was Dick’s greatest joy. He cherished every moment spent hunting, camping, watching football, and simply being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as his family continued to grow.

Dick’s memory lives on through his beloved wife, Teresa Copeland; his children, Tim Copeland (Gerry), Dirck Copeland (Cindy), Fred Copeland, and Tina Goslin (Ken); eight grandchildren, Tami Potter (Dan), Derek Copeland, Krissy Copeland, Lindsey Miller (Jay), Amber Lyn Jenkins, Cameron Copeland (Arra), Tiffany Weaver (Sid), and Brandy Goslin (Kyle); and eight great-grandchildren, Jakob Potter-Alvarez (Ana), Madison Copeland, Tori Copeland, Jordan Miller, Jackson Miller, Maelee Peterson, Kohler Peterson, and Linkon Peterson. He was preceded in death by his great-grandchild, Timothy Potter.

A memorial service will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Wilks Funeral Home in Chubbuck, Idaho.

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