Obituary: LaVon Copenhaver

LaVon Copenhaver

"Bonnie"

LaVon Copenhaver passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2008, in Taylorsville, Utah, following a long illness.LaVon "Bonnie" was born Oct. 1, 1925 in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Duaine and Audrey Morgan. Bonnie attended Granite High school and was a member of The Church of

Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bonnie retired from Zion's First National Bank after 18 years. Was Health Chairman of the PTA when the cure of Polio came. Served in the Fireman's Auxiliary, Civil Defense and belonged to the American Legion Auxiliary Post 132. She married her sweetheart, "Cope", in Salt Lake City on Feb. 13, 1943. They were married for 63 years before Cope's passing in 2006. Bonnie and Cope loved to spend time with their family and friends. They spent many winters in the St. George area and enjoyed a cabin at Defa's Ranch. Bonnie and Cope enjoyed many trips together. Bonnie loved to cook and entertain at the family home. She kept a spotless home and enjoyed taking long walks. Bonnie and Cope loved to dance together and follow the Utah Jazz.

Bonnie and Cope had three children: Sharon (Ernie) Hardcastle, Murray; Jack (Kathy) Copenhaver, Logan; Nancy (Ben) Fellows, West Valley City; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren. Bonnie is preceded in death by her husband,

William (Cope), her parents, Duaine and Audrey Morgan, brother, Ray, sisters, Ruth Ada and Carol Jean, son-in-law Ben Fellows.

Bonnie's family and friends were blessed to know her. She was a wonderful mother and "friend" to her three children and her grand-children. Bonnie was a wise manager of the family money, even though there were many hardships, the children always had clean clothes and there was always a warm meal on the table. Bonnie loved to use a pot cooker and made the best chili, soup and stews. Most of her recipes she created in her head. Bonnie provided care for her parents when they were ill.

Bonnie had some words of advice to leave her family: "First of all, I would tell you all how very much I love you and how proud I am to be your mother and grandmother. Always be kind to everyone. Be kind to your families and do what you can for them. Most of all enjoy them. Keep your bodies healthy, work hard for the things you want and need. Stay out of debt. Don't be afraid to say 'I'm sorry' or 'I love you.' Enjoy your lives to the fullest."

The family would like to express their appreciation to the Legacy of Taylorsville and Haven Hospice for their caring and kindness.

Funeral services will be held on Sat. January 26, 2008, 11 a.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 S. Redwood Road, where a viewing will be from 9-10:45 a.m. prior to

services. Interment, Larkin Sunset Gardens.