In Memory

George Copenhaver - Class Of 1979 VIEW PROFILE

George Copenhaver

Apri 1, 1960 - Dec 28, 2013

 

El Roble Junior High School, 1974-75


Loving father, caring husband, Claremont son

Claremont native George Copenhaver died unexpectedly of a brain aneurysm on December 28, 2013. He was 53.
 
 
Mr. Copenhaver was born April 1, 1960 to Daniel and Cosette Copenhaver of Claremont. He was one of two children and often spent time with his sister Jean. He attended Claremont High School and graduated in 1979.
 
After graduating, Mr. Copenhaver served in the Navy and was stationed on the LKA 115 USS Mobile. His service lasted until 1983.
 
After high school, Mr. Copenhaver and some close friends decided to rent a house together in Claremont. Dubbed the “happy house,” friends would frequent their home to hang out with one another and relax. Carrie Stewart-Dixon, a long-time friend, remembers when they would all hang out at Baxter’s restaurant and bar that once stood on Foothill Boulevard.
 
Ms. Stewart-Dixon recalled that when the two lived in the same section of town homes Mr. Copenhaver would drop by to visit her and eat pistachios out of a bowl on her kitchen counter.
 
In 1991, a chance meeting at Baxter’s introduced him to his wife, Monica. After several attempts at getting her attention, with Monica rebutting every advance, he eventually won her over with his persistence. A year later, the two were married on October 17, 1992 and had three children together. His family became the center of his world. He was a hands-on father and would always be quick to help his children. He did his best to help coach them in whatever new activity they wanted to try. He gave his children unconditional love and wanted to make sure they were self-motivated.
 
Living by example, Mr. Copenhaver founded his own granite business in 2003. He installed granite and stone both commercially and residentially all over the city of Claremont. He oftentimes would work long hours to make sure he could provide for his family and did whatever it took to make sure he took care of them all.
 
Much like his birth date, Mr. Copenhaver loved to laugh and make others smile. His infectious laugh was loud and would make anyone that heard it join him. Though he loved to tease others, it was always in good fun and never to discourage.
 
He enjoyed boating in his free time, especially if it meant a small getaway to the family’s river home. He rooted for the Angels with every game. Even when they lost, his devotion to his favorite team never wavered. He loved to attend his children’s sporting events, which included his daughter’s softball and soccer games; and his son’s football games and wrestling matches.
 
Being a native son to Claremont, Mr. Copenhaver was sure to stay in touch with his many childhood friends. His friendly personality made him easy to be around and touched many lives throughout the city and he loved to celebrate with them all.
 
On the Fourth of July he was sure to be seen celebrating at one of the city’s events, spending time with his friends and family. His big heart and friendly demeanor made everyone he met feel instantly like they were best friends.
 
Mr. Copenhaver is survived by his wife, Monica; their children, Briana, Ryan and Amanda; his sister, Jean; his niece, Nikki and extended family.
 
Services were held Saturday, January 11, 2014, at La Verne Heights Presbyterian Church, located at 1040 Base Line Rd. in La Verne.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations through gofundme.com, keywords “George Copenhaver.”
 
 





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