Brian DaWayne Copen

Brian DaWayne Copen, age 62, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026. He was born on July 28, 1964, in Painesville, Ohio, to his loving parents, Marlon T. Copen, Jr. and Jewell V. Copen.

Affectionately known as "the baby," Brian carried that nickname with pride, as it became a beloved family joke that brought smiles to everyone who knew him. A lifelong resident of the Cleveland area, Brian spent most of his life in Cleveland before moving to Olmsted Township in December of last year to live with his sister, Valerie, and brother-in-law, Bradley. There, he found comfort, peace, and the joy of being surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply.

Brian proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was a devoted Cleveland sports fan who never missed an opportunity to cheer on the Browns, Guardians, and Cavaliers. He had a well-known love for strawberry milkshakes, finding the best food deals in town, and enjoying a good meal. He also loved trying his luck with lottery tickets. Brian appreciated beautiful weather, enjoyed taking walks, and took great pride in yard work, especially the smell of freshly cut grass. One of his most treasured possessions was the car lovingly left to him by his father, which he cared for with great pride. A familiar voice to many, Brian faithfully called 98.5 FM every day at noon to request songs, building a friendship with the station's DJ over the years. Above all else, Brian loved his family. He shared a special bond with many of his cousins and found tremendous joy in being an uncle. He was excited to become a great uncle again, as well as a new great-great-uncle. His kindness, loyalty, and gentle spirit made him a wonderful son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed.

Brian was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Marlon T. Copen, Jr. and Jewell V. Copen; his brother, David Copen; and his nephew, Bradley T. Fredericks.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted sister, Valerie R. (nee Copen) Fredericks; his brother-in-law, Bradley Fredericks; his nephews, Chadwick T. Fredericks and Jacob A. (Talia) Fredericks; his niece, Jessica Fredericks; his great-niece, Mia Anderson; many beloved cousins, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his warmth, humor, and unwavering love.

Brian will be remembered for his caring heart, his sense of humor, his love of Cleveland sports, his daily calls to request songs on 98.5 FM, and his appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Most of all, he will be remembered for the love he had for his family and the joy he found in spending time with those he held dear. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to their GoFundMe to assist with final expenses.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-dignified-farewell-for-brian-copen?attribution_id=sl%3Ae55945e8-c0f3-4ebd-b3eb-afd2abfaef39&invitation_id=d67565c3-d5c0-4020-b639-097a6540c6b6&ts=1786044306557&utm_campaign=natman_today_topbar_android&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=sms&cp_src=m

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Slone & Co. Funeral Directors.