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Alexander Copeland Obituary
'Coach Zan'
'Coach Zan' Copeland took his place as the pitcher on the Field of Dreams on Thursday, June 10, 2010.
Alexander 'Zan' Copeland, longtime manager and coach of the Myers Park Trinity Little League team, passed away early Thursday, as the result of a fire at his home. Zan was a former player in the league, and started coaching the Trinity team in the early 1970s. Zan was also a long time All Star coach, the founder of the Fall Ball program, the founder of the Baseball Fever!! Summer Camps and Clinics and a passionate advocate for underprivileged kids, leading the highly successful recruiting efforts in the Grier Heights community.
He cared deeply about every child that came through the programs and loved teaching baseball as well as important life lessons. Zan served on the Little League Board for many years and was a go-to guy for administrative and policy matters, always keeping the best interests of the league and the families in the forefront of his mind.
He was a tremendously skilled and talented man, with a variety of interests, a degree from Duke University, and a devotion to Duke Athletics, but his true love and passion was MPTLL and the thousands of kids that he has influenced through the years. We are grateful for all that Zan gave to the community.
Zan was looking forward to the start of the first week of baseball camps on the day he died. He would want to go forward with Baseball Fever!! Little League officials decided to honor his legacy by keeping to the schedule. Jason Wishnefsky, one of the lead instructors since the Camp's inception, has graciously agreed to take over as Camp Director for the Summer of 2010.
Zan graduated from Myers Park High School in 1961 where he was student body president and went on to Duke University. He graduated from Duke Law School and returned to Charlotte to practice at Blakely, Alexander, and Machen before forming a law partnership with Mike Troiano. They also started Alexander Michaels Restaurant located in Fourth Ward. Zan owned two other restaurants, Proposition 45 and McZ's on Providence Road.
Zan is missed by hundreds of Little Leaguers and their families, his myriad of friends, especially family friend, Lauro Diaz, most importantly his mother, Eugenia Wallace Copeland (often a fan at Zan's games), his sister Lois Copeland Funderburk and her husband Laney of Durham, NC, niece Lisa Miller and husband Kevin of Winston-Salem and nephew Tripp Funderburk of Washington, DC and 3 grandnieces and a grandnephew, all of Winston-Salem.
Memorials may be sent to MPTLL, c/o Bill Flye, PO Box 220272, Charlotte NC 28222.
A Celebration of Zan's life will be Sunday, June 12, 2010 at Trinity Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 3115 Providence Road, 28211 at 2:00pm. Players and Coaches encouraged to wear their uniforms.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Alexander Copeland
Danita Cousart
February 7, 2011
Wow Coach Zan wasn't just a Coach to my boys but he also taught them about morals, respect and how to be young men. Report cards meant alot to Mr. Copeland he'll always be loved in my household. Danita Cousart (Antonio, Avery, Louie never will forget this wonderful man) Charlotte, NC
Ted
July 30, 2010
Not in Charlotte - just heard from a friend.
Zan was the coach that every parent wished to have. He had a passion for the game and taught his kids the right way with respect for teammates and opponents.
I coached in MPT for several years, but learned much from watching Zan. He also coached my son Ross who came back to MPT to coach himself.
Zan will be missed.
Sabreina Gilliam
June 28, 2010
I met Zan on one occassion when he asked my Godson about playing ball for him.
I watched him from my house while he was recruiting the kids from the Grier Heights community and he was dedicated and committed to what he was doing.
I personally appreciate the time Mr. Zan spent in Grier Heights and his devotion was incredible. May God bless this family and may his legend live on.
The Gilliam Family and the Griers Heights Community
Denise Owens
June 27, 2010
I will never forget Mr. Copeland (though he insisted I call him Zan). I worked with him in physical therapy. He was an incredibly determined person who would do anything it took to be able to get the ball field to be with the kids. His devotion was remarkable. I am better person because of his influence, and I suspect I am not alone. Zan, his family, and the little league are in my prayers.
Reg & Martha Morton
June 23, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Paul Walker
June 22, 2010
I consider myself blessed that I was one of the hundreds that had the privilege to play for Zan. '72 ESSO and 73' EXXON. It was a great time Zan,,, thanks.
P.Walker
A Matthews
June 21, 2010
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your loved one. May " the God of all comfort" give you all the courage and the strength to cope during this difficult time. (2 Corinthians 1:3,4)
Tamera Foxx
June 16, 2010
June 16, 2010
Always the refuge in the storm of "bar stupidy". You have been my friend for 20 years and your leaving does not end that friendship. I will see again someday. I am sure you will agree; lets give it a little a time. I love you Zan and I send all my love to your to your Mom because she must miss you so very much. You lived well and I am sure that gives her comfort.
~ Tamera Foxx, Singapore
Zan is 3 from top right. Mrs. Lafferty's class. Myers Park High School.
Mary Maddock Long
June 16, 2010
Mary Maddock Long
June 16, 2010
I remember Zan from when I was 8 years old. He was my brother Doug's best friend. He was my favorite because he was so nice to me as a kid, and remained a great guy all of his life.
Hope you and Doug are not getting in any trouble up there!! For sure you will be missed here!
Mary Maddock Long
June 16, 2010
Osvaldo Camilo
June 15, 2010
It is with great sorrow that I heard the devastating news of Mr. Copeland's untimely death. Mr. Copeland gave me the honor of allowing me to be his neurologist, and to me he was an exceptional human being. He unwittingly taught me so many lessons, and with his supreme willpower he was capable of overcoming immense obstacles on the pathway to his gradual but steady recovery.My deepest respect for Mr. Copeland, the epitome of a real gentleman.
My sympathy to his family.
Osvaldo Camilo, MD
Davis Hutchens
June 15, 2010
Zan, it wasn't always easy playing for you. But I sure learned some VERY valuable life lessons in the process. It is very encouraging to see many of my (our) former teammates expressing the same sentiments. Between Nathan Stoval, Stuart Cowden, David Nussman, Zach Wittington,etc... we couldn't have had a better team. You will certainly be missed, but could never be forgotten. I will certainly never forget the 17-1 season as a 12 year old starting catcher (I think the record still stands). Sorry we lost to Carolina Pad.
Davis Hutchens (Trinity Alum along with brother Paul Hutchens)
Stephanie Chesson
June 15, 2010
I hadn't seen you in years and years Zan but I will always have the wonderful memories of silly times with you as well as your wonderful humor and intelligence. I was so sad when Big Ben burned down as it felt a lot like McZee's and brought up great memories. I bet you and my mom are talking baseball and having a grand time. I do and will miss you.
Foard Naumann
June 14, 2010
Coach Zan was my friend, instructor, motivator, and my inspiration. He taught me things I never knew. Not only did he make me a better player, he made me a better person. I hope Coach Zan is happy up there playing or coaching baseball. Coach Zan will be remembered as a great man. I will remember him as my friend. God bless you Coach Zan.
David Corry
June 14, 2010
ZAN...you were a good man and respected by MANY ! Rest in Peace pal !
Nancy Cowan
June 14, 2010
I was so saddened to read of Zan's passing in the Charlotte Observer. I worked for Zan and Tony at McZ's in the 1980's. He was very kind to offer me a job when I lost mine shortly after purchasing a new home. I have not seen him in years but I still remember the hand of friendship he offered to every guest entering the restaurant. I've got to believe he is up in heaven now having a grand time reacquainting with friends who have passed before him.
Rob King
June 14, 2010
Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow.
Don't walk behind me, I may not lead.
Just walk beside me and be my friend...
We will miss you Coach....God's Speed
Carol McNair
June 14, 2010
I knew Zan so many years ago. He helped me tremendously in my legal time of need. My deepest sympathy to the family for their untimely loss!
Vincent Mason
June 14, 2010
Thanks Zan for all that u do. A long time friend of 27 years you will be greatly missed by thousands.Till we meet again my friend i will continue to Prep Step. Go Trinity!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jane Kuester Taylor
June 14, 2010
Our son Andrew was blessed to have Zan as a coach for four years. Zan was an amazing inspiration, example and teacher. He taught his boys not only how to play baseball, but how to apply the principles of excellence, pride, good sportsmanship and teamwork to their lives beyond the field.
Gregg Pence
June 14, 2010
I will miss all the conversations with you Zan. Rest In Peace...
Keith Cooke
June 13, 2010
Also, on behalf of my family and the Pineville-Ballantyne Community Athletic Association, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to all of Zan's family.
Keith Cooke
June 13, 2010
Coach Zan exemplified all there was to teaching kids to be honorable adults. His teaching skills were unparalleled to any. I hope that as I continue to coach my son in Little League that some of Zan's abilities have rubbed off on me. I remember when I was a young cocky 9 year old thinking that it was my time to move up to the Majors. When I was cut, I remember Coach Zan telling me that he thought I was going to be a terrific ballplayer, but needed another year before playing up. Just that one note of encouragement taught me how to work hard to achieve my goals, and that stays with me today, and something that I teach my son in baseball. Because of this, he has been blessed to be on three All-Star teams by the time he is nine, with the hope of plenty more in the future.
Zan's endeavours in baseball and his restaurants and other work have shown that hard work pays off - not only in terms of tangible success, but in the lives of several thousand kids that he has influenced and inspired to be not only great ballplayers, but also great human beings.
I know that he and my parents are yucking it up in Heaven right now - I used to love their conversations at Alexander Michael's back in the day. Really made me laugh. I will miss Coach Zan and was honored to have him as part of my life.
Donna Elizabeth Monroe
June 13, 2010
I will miss Zan telling me stories and making me laugh until I cried.I was a big fan of Eugenia, Zan's Mother, and Zan always had wonderful stories about his Mother.Peace and love,Donna Elizabeth
Vic Pronier
June 13, 2010
Zan, You will truly be missed. Suzanne and I really enjoyed our times with you and all the stories and times we shared. With all the love from both of us.......
Andrew Taylor
June 13, 2010
As I was getting dressed today for the memorial and I couldn't help but feel like I was 10 years old, getting dressed for a game at EC Griffith.
Zan always told us, "If you look like a ballplayer, you'll be a ballplayer, how you look on the field is just as important as how you play."
I wore a black suit, black tie, and dusted of my black Trinity hat from 23 years ago.
I saw two coaches, Grumps and Dutch, and a former team mate, Mark Jones...
It was a great memorial, to a great man.
Kwiatkowski Family
June 13, 2010
Thanks Coach Zan. You'll be greatly missed by all in our MPTLL community. Our hearts and thoughts to your family.
Lee Howe
June 13, 2010
we will miss Zan!!
Markel & Jacqueline Limbacker
June 13, 2010
My prays go out to Mr. Copeland's family. I didn't get to know him as long as others may have, but for the three years my boys have been playing he was our go to guy and always got things going. As the word states "To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord". God Bless......
Perry Miller
June 13, 2010
Lois,
Karen and I send our love and prayers to you in this loss. In reading the Observer story and the many tributes, your brother certainly had an incredible impact on the lives of countless youth and their families. Peace to you and your family...
Toby Wolter
June 12, 2010
It was with much sadness that I received the news of Zan's passing. Zan was my college roommate...and although we had been out of touch after leaving Duke, I heard from him several years ago, and we almost connected at a spring training in Florida. He was brilliant, funny, and obviously, a dear friend and coach to all his players. He found his place in this life, and probably accomplished just what he was supposed to. He will be greatly missed.
Jon, Andrea & Andrew Reynolds
June 12, 2010
Thanks coach Zan you are the greatest! My son Andrew had the pleasure of playing for coach Zan a few years ago,and his dedication to Andrew and our family was remarkable. Whenever we were unable to get Andrew to practice coach Zan would always step in and do what ever it took to get him there. Thanks Zan for your love for the kids, Thanks for caring about Andrew. You will be missed. Coach Zan taugh me everything I know about baseball today,he even spent his own money to buy me things I needed to be better. I still remember those words you told me," Andrew,I believe your the best kid to have come through Myers Park".I will remember that forever, Coach Zan you will be missed!
To the family, you have our deepest sympathy, and our prayes are with you! With Love from the Reynolds Family
June 12, 2010
Zan was my son ,Ned Beck's ,coach twenty some years ago. I was "team mother". I remember his concern for the young black players in the Grier town neighborhood, and one in particular, named "Reggie" that I used to pick up for practice and games. I wish I knew what became of Reggie,and I wish he knew about Zan. Ned, who is a builder and realestate agent in Mount Pleasant, SC now, knows about Zan and that he is definitely in that "Field of Dreams". He was a good man and a good coach. Jan Beck, Charlotte, NC
James Layton
June 12, 2010
Zan has been my coach for about four years after he brought me up to his team in the middle of my season. I then received he nickname of Jumbo from him. He has tought me countless tips on how to play the game of baseball. The last time i saw him was about three days before he past away, and he told me that I could always talk to him about anything. Zan was not only my coach but my friend. God bless you coach.
Tiffany/Raquan McLendon
June 12, 2010
Zan you will trully be issed. I had the pleasure to met Zan 9years ago when RaQuan began with this league he was 41/2 then.Zan was a good and trullt loved the biys. He wanted them all to become successful players and he taught it to them where they could become great players.RaQuan had the pleasure of working with Zanand saids he will trully miss Zan. May God bless you Zan, we love you!!!!
Tiffany/RaQuan Patterson
June 12, 2010
Zan you will trully be missed,you trully were a great asset yo Myers Park Trinity Little League.You will be missed!!!! Over the years you have coached my son and as well as been a positive role model to RaQuan. We appreciate you for all you did and know that you will always be in our hearts!!!!
Sarah Nicholson Wilson
June 11, 2010
I met Zan when I was a "dishpunk," aka dishwasher, at Proposition XLV, Zan's first restaurant venture. I played softball, which immediately endeared me to him. I graduated to Al Mikes in the summer before UNC and continued there, summers and filling in, throughout my UNC tenure. We spent may a time rehashing ball and life--what a prince of a man!!
Then there was the time when my phone rang in my dorm room--it was Zan from a pay phone at the corner of Franklin St and Hillsborough, wanting to know where I was! I scooted up to Spanky's and we drank a couple of Miller Lites and I though, how absolutely cool is this?!?
He and his restaurants were a huge part of my being in my late teens and early 20's and for that I am eternally grateful and blessed.
My deepest sympathies to his sister, and extended famlies, including Myers Park Trinity.
His presence is already missed.
LeeAnn Politis
June 11, 2010
Zan was a dear friend, who I always was happy to see when he was down here at Holden Beach. He had a favorite seat in our restaurant where he could work on stats and see a game. We will all miss his warm smile and larger than life heart.
Jeff Carter
June 11, 2010
I had the honor and pleasure of working for Zan at McZ's in the mid-80's. Zan filled that place with laughter every night. I ran into him for the first time in almost 20 years about a month ago and got to sit and talk with him for a good hour or more, rehashing the old times and good people. I'm glad I had that chance, and hate to see him leave so soon.
John Nivens
June 11, 2010
I had the privalge to coach with Zan. Zan did me the honor of awardeing the Johnny Nivens award every year in honor of my son. My emotions ran the spread upon hearing of his death. The one that settled in was jealously. I know he is with Johnny either playing, coaching or talking baseball. I wish I could be there. Zan, I'll get you for this!
Rivera Family
June 11, 2010
3 Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort. 4 He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble. 5 We share in the terrible sufferings of Christ, but also in the wonderful comfort he gives. [2Corinthians1:3-5]
Stewart Cowden
June 11, 2010
Zan - Thanks for teaching me about the game of baseball!
You will be missed greatly - but your legacy will live on with many future generations of little leaguers!
June 11, 2010
Psalms 34:17-18
17 The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
Kobe Rivera
June 11, 2010
Coach Zan,
Thank you for teaching me stuff I never knew as a 10 year old on Trinity team. I'm gonna miss you. Memories will always be passed on about you.
June 11, 2010
What a great guy. Zan was a teacher of life and he used Little League as his classroom. I had the privledge of coaching with Zan for over 12 years. Because of him I am still a coach. I try to share some "Zan" with every young person I come in contact with. He taught pride, effort, but especially sportsmanship. I am a better man, parent, and coach because of Zan. He will be missed but never forgotten because he has made a mark in so many of us that will continue through our children's children.
We love you Zan
Michael "Dutch" Dutcher (Zebulon NC)
June 11, 2010
My husband, Dana, and I came to know Zan from Nickyo's several years ago. Though we had not been in touch in a long while, we are truly thankful for and will always remember his friendship, warmth, generosity, humor, and especially his smile.
Gina Ernsberger
DJ Carpenter
June 11, 2010
Zan was one of the nicest person you ever could meet! I had the privilege to work as a manager for him at Lakeside in Lake Norman. I will always remember the times there, and Zan’s little bits of wisdom that he was so generous to share with me.
Frank Jarrett
June 11, 2010
I will always remember my time at Alexander-Michael's back it's opening. One of the greatest people I ever worked for. Zan will be remembered by so many for so many different things he did for the Charlotte community.
Kay Hart
June 11, 2010
My love and sympathy on the death of Zan, a wonderful, funny and gifted man, are to his sister, a high school and Duke friend. I cannot tell you how very sad I feel for you. I remember when we thought he was a real "brat" - the young brother who seemed to always be around - when we wished he wasn't. I had no idea of his love and legacy of baseball; I only remember his good looks and terrific sense of humor. Lois, please know that, although I am far away, you are in my thoughts and prayers at this saddest of times.
My sister called me in St. George, Utah early this morning to let me know of Zan's death. I pulled up his obituary from the Charlotte Observer online. Please know that I am thinking of you .
Love,
Kay Hart
Andrew Taylor
June 11, 2010
Goodbye Coach.... I will never forget the lessons you taught me about life and the game of baseball.
Andrew Taylor
June 11, 2010
Goodbye Coach..... I will never forget the lessons you taught me about life and the game of baseball.
Nathan Stovall
June 11, 2010
I followed in my brother’s footsteps and played four years for Zan. He was not just an amazing coach, but taught beyond the baseball field, highlighting the importance of discipline, respect and loyalty. I’m glad I knew Zan and my thoughts go out to his family.
Yvonne Mobley
June 11, 2010
Though I can't feel your pain, I do share your sorrow. Take strength in your memories and have faith in tomorrow. Our condolences to you and your family. He will truly be missed.
Debbie Johnson
June 11, 2010
My relationship with Zan was back in the late 1970's and 80's at the well known Providence Sundries. I look so forward to going there with my friends, and finding Zan to also be there. We had so much fun together. His smile was so endearing. I was shocked to hear this on the news. I still can't believe it. I wish I could of seen him again. Even though we had not seen each other in years...he still holds a special place in my heart. I love you Zan. "Hickory"
Michael B
June 11, 2010
You'll be missed.
JOE
June 11, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Monroe Family
June 11, 2010
Coach Zan was a true icon and not only coached the Trinity team but all that came to play. His life was a gift to all that loved the game of baseball. THANKS for all you taught our 3 boys about life and baseball. God Bless
Kae Roberts
June 11, 2010
My son, Brian, played for Zan on the Trinity team for four years. Brian learned so much from Zan and the experience. Brian took those lessons and skills on to CCDS and to UVA as he volunteer coached at St. Ann's Belfield. All of the parents of Zan's players are grateful for the example that Zan set-to play fair, be kind and be a team player. I pray that God has a Little League field in heaven because that is where you will find Zan.
Greg Sito
June 11, 2010
Thanks Zan for your passion and dedication to the world of baseball.
David Nussman
June 11, 2010
Zan,
My hand still hurts from using the wooden paddles during practice for catching and fielding the baseball, but it did lead the team to a 17-1 record, sorry we couldn't make it 18. Thanks for showing my brother and I the fundamentals of baseball. Thanks for all your time, effort, and willingness to continue building the Myers Park Trinity Little League.
Thanks again,
David Nussman (Trinity Alum)
Suzanne Glenn
June 11, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family
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