Noel J. Copeland

We lovingly remember the life of Noel J. Copeland, a man of determination, intelligence, and keen analytical mind, who left us on December 12, 2024. Born on January 25, 1940, in Nebraska, Noel's journey led him to a life rich in passion projects, family, career, and service, culminating in Denver, Colorado, where he passed after a courageous battle with cancer.

Noel's early years in Lincoln, Nebraska laid a foundation for a life of never ending learning. At the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, he studied Architecture, a field where he would leave a lasting imprint. Noel's professional path was marked by a successful tenure as a partner at the architectural firm JHP in Denver. He dedicated the latter part of his career to the CU School of Medicine, serving as an Architect and playing a pivotal role in the development of the Anschutz Medical Campus. His contributions to the architectural landscape of Denver will stand as a testament to his skill and vision.

Beyond his professional achievements, Noel was a man of diverse interests and talents. He loved living in Colorado and he and his wife, Donna, enjoyed retreating to the mountains with their dogs over the years. He shared his love for tennis with his son, John, and spent many hours on the court, striving to perfect his game and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Noel's commitment to his community was evident through his public service, particularly his work with the Advisory Board for Denver Parks and Recreation. Like his daughter, Emily, he had a passion for new experiences in new places, and he always found inspiration for his paintings through his observations here and abroad. At home, Noel could often be found immersed in word or number puzzles that baffled his family, or devising and executing various home projects that could at times be equally baffling to those around him.

Noel's family was the cornerstone of his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna J. Copeland, who shared his life for 60 years, his son, John C. Copeland, and his daughter, M. Emily Copeland (Jim). The legacy Noel leaves behind in his family is one of resilience, the pursuit of excellence, and a desire to always experience more in life.

Those who knew Noel would describe him as a man who maintained his vibrancy by maintaining a to do list that would never be finished.  Whether he was planning his next home project, planning his next trip, or building his library of books and music, he always had a next step he wanted to achieve. In his last weeks, Noel bought a complete DVD set from Rick Steves as he continued to imagine an epic trip back to Europe.  

As we bid farewell to Noel, we reflect on a life well-lived, marked by accomplishments and imbued with the joy of design and creation. His memory will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him and the many lives he touched through his work and community involvement. Noel J. Copeland will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will live on in the beauty he created and the love he shared.

In lieu of other forms of remembrance, the family has asked that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Second Serve nonprofit organization.

A celebration of life for Noel will be planned by the family in the months to come.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Noel J. Copeland, please visit our floral store.