John Kenneth Copenhaver

Rev. John Kenneth Copenhaver, affectionally known as Ken, a cherished ordained minister and devoted family man, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 17, 2025, at the age of 100. Born on October 24, 1924, in the serene town of Sparks, West Virginia, Ken dedicated his life to the service of others through his pastoral vocation and nurturing family relationships.

With an illustrious career that spanned an impressive 43 years, Rev. Copenhaver had the profound honor of pastoring in numerous churches of the Nazarene. His journey took him to Union City, Pennsylvania; Indiana, Pennsylvania; Martins Ferry, Ohio; Rush Community Church, Newtonsville, Ohio; Wilmington, Ohio; New Smyrna Beach, Florida; and Massillon, Ohio. Each congregation felt the warmth of his kind spirit, his intelligent insights, and his ability to connect empathetically with individuals from all walks of life.

An honor student throughout his formative years and a Dean's List scholar during his time at college, Ken graduated from Summersville High School and continued his education at Eastern Nazarene College in Wollaston, Massachusetts. He subsequently attended Cleveland Bible College—now known as Malone Bible College—where he earned a bachelor's degree in Theology. Additionally, he completed the Evangelical Teacher Trainer's course, reflecting his commitment to education and spiritual growth. Above all, Ken's world revolved around his beloved wife, Roberta Margaret.

More than just a minister, Ken was a beloved father, revered by his children—Jeff (Joyce) Copenhaver, Cheryl Copenhaver, Ruth Anne (Danny) Flint, Karen (Tom) Jackson, and Kevin (Kyle Kastner) Copenhaver. He was a doting grandfather to Douglas (Katie) Copenhaver, Andre (Sarah) Flint, Zia Sohrabian, Amanda Copenhaver, Ephraim (Jannifer) Flint, Zina Sohrabian, Meagan Miller, Noah (Jennifer) Flint, and Gideon Jackson. John’s legacy is further extended by the joy of great-grandchildren, including Colston Flint, Colin Copenhaver, Lucy Miller, Tanner Flint, Liam Copenhaver, Adlee Jackson, and Rowen Flint. His world revolved around his wife, family, and church, and he remains lovingly remembered as the best father anyone could hope for.

In his quieter moments, Rev. Copenhaver displayed a delightful sense of humor while pursuing a variety of interests. He enjoyed fellowshipping and cultivating a deep love for music, expressed through his poetry and compositions, and displayed his musical talents on the piano, organ, and accordion. His green thumb fostered a passion for gardening and planting flowers, and he found peace in fishing, often cherishing those moments spent in nature and time spent with family.

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Roberta Margaret (2013), as well as his parents, James and Betty Copenhaver. He is also survived by the memories of his siblings: Ida Copenhaver, Josie Fitzwater Skaggs, Jessie Flack, Russell Copenhaver, Harvey Copenhaver, Cecil Copenhaver, Goldie Stover Painter, Gladys Harlow, Evelyn Plants, and James Copenhaver, each contributing to the mosaic of his life and spirit.

Rev. John Kenneth Copenhaver leaves behind a profound legacy of love, faith, and dedication to God and his family. He will be forever missed by many friends and family whose lives he touched with profound compassion and unwavering kindness.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, 2025 at Wilmington Church of the Nazarene, 2193 Wayne Rd. Funeral service will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025 at the church. Burial to follow at Sugar Grove Cemetery in Wilmington. 

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