05/29/2026
It is with profound gratitude and heavy hearts that we honor the life and legacy of Mr. Gerret Copeland, a man whose generosity, vision, and compassion forever changed the lives of animals and the people who love them.
Mr. Copeland lived a life rooted in curiosity, service, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. Whether through his dedication to preserving nature, supporting the arts, or fostering community, he believed in making the world more beautiful, more humane, and more connected. That same spirit guided his love for animals, a powerful passion that found expression through his generous support of Humane Animal Partners.
Mr. Copeland and his beloved wife, Tatiana, have supported animals in need for what feels like a lifetime, serving as Honorary Board members at HAP. From sustaining daily operations to ensuring no animal was left behind, their passion is evident in all of their efforts. As the needs within our community grew, Mr. and Mrs. Copeland met them with unwavering compassion and remarkable generosity, exemplifying what it means to lead with both heart and purpose. Their support helped shape the future of our organization, most notably through the creation of the Tatiana and Gerret Copeland Animal Care Center, a living testament to their belief that every animal deserves safety, care, and, most importantly, a chance. More than just a building, it has become a place of hope, healing, and second chances, where over 15,000 animals have found loving homes and brighter futures.
Mr. Copeland’s kindness and commitment to animals extended far beyond shelter animals, as it was deeply personal as well. In 2017, the Copelands established Reggie’s Fund in memory of their beloved dog, Reggie, honoring not only his life but the belief that pets are family, and that no one should have to say goodbye too soon. Through this fund, families facing financial hardship can access critical, lifesaving veterinary care, ensuring they never have to make the heartbreaking decision to surrender or say goodbye to their beloved pet. Since its founding, Reggie’s Fund has helped save the lives of more than 1,000 animals in our community. Each life saved, each family kept whole, reflects Mr. Copeland’s enduring compassion and the love he carried for animals.
To Tatiana and the entire Copeland family,
Gerret's love, leadership, and compassion have left an unforgettable mark on Humane Animal Partners and the animals we serve. Gerret’s legacy will live on in every life saved, every second chance given, and every moment of love shared between people and their pets. We take comfort in knowing Gerret is reunited with his beloved Reggie, and the many dogs he cherished throughout his life, together again, a reflection of the deep bonds he so treasured. We will carry his legacy forward with gratitude, purpose, and the same compassion he so generously showed to all.
We are deeply honored that the Copeland family has chosen Humane Animal Partners as a recipient of memorial donations, furthering Mr. Copeland’s impact for many years to come.
https://www.chandlerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/gerret-van-sweringen-copeland/
