Theodore H. Copeland, Jr. passed away from leukemia on October 3, 2007, at his beloved retirement community, The Quadrangle in Haverford, PA. holding the hand of his son, Peter B. Copeland. He was 81.

Ted was born on January 17, 1926 in Philadelphia. He attended Upper Darby High School, as well as Franklin & Marshall College and the University of Pennsylvania in the Naval ROTC Program during World War II. After serving his country as an engineering officer on a light cruiser, Ted returned to Franklin & Marshall and graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Physics. Ted then earned a Master's Degree in Educational Administration from Columbia University and returned to Franklin & Marshall as the Assistant Dean of Students. While working at Franklin & Marshall, Ted began studies at Temple University towards his Ph.D., which he received the year he left Franklin & Marshall to begin his teaching career at Lower Merion High School.

Ted taught at Lower Merion from 1953 to 1958, where he instituted a senior honors course in Psychology, taught Mathematics, and coached soccer. When the district decided to build a second high school, Ted served on the planning committee and began teaching there, at Harriton High School, when it opened in 1958. He taught there for 30 years, and was affectionately known as "Doc."

As varsity head soccer coach for 20 years, his Lower Merion teams enjoyed 19 winning seasons and seven league titles. Ted was a huge positive influence on so many people. When news of his retirement went out, he received letters from all over the country from students and athletes whose lives he had touched.

Ted was an avid tennis player, photographer, world traveler, and bridge player. His men's bridge group stayed together for 50 years. He also enjoyed playing bridge at The Quadrangle, where he lived for the last 11 years. At The Quadrangle, Ted served as tennis chairman, put on several slide shows featuring his world travels, and displayed his best photographs in several exhibits. Ted was well known and loved for his lively spirit, his wonderful sense of humor, and his willingness to help out whenever called upon.

Ted is survived by his son, Peter Copeland (Stephanie Copeland), grandsons Max and Ben Copeland, his daughter, Meredith Copeland (James Nelson), and grandchildren Lindsay, Will, and Walker Nelson. To his grandchildren, he was "Grandad" and "PopPop." Ted's love of education continues through them, both by his example and by his generous gifts in support of their college educations.

Dad, you lived life to the fullest for 81 years, and we are so proud of you.

Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of Ted's life to be held at The Quadrangle, 3300 Darby Road, Haverford, at 3 p.m. on Sunday October 7, 2007. Interment is private.