Steven Robert Copler

Steven “Steve” Robert Copler passed away of natural causes in early August 2024, at the age of 64.

Born on February 19, 1960, in New Albany, IN, Steven was the son of Virginia (Radcliffe) Copler and Donald Keith Copler, Sr.

Steven spent most of his life in Southern Indiana. He grew up on the Copler family farm, where he helped tend to the animals and garden alongside his four brothers. He attended St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic School and graduated from Floyd Central High School in 1978. Steven proudly served in the United States Navy as a Sonar Technician Second Class (STS2) aboard submarines from 1978 until his honorable discharge in 1984.

Following his military service, Steven worked at Naval Ordnance for 12 years before joining Duke Energy, where he was a dedicated electrician and active member of IBEW Local 1393 for 20 years. He retired from Duke Energy in 2019.

Steven was a faithful Christian who read his Bible daily. He was a talented painter who enjoyed creating art on canvas. Steven cherished his family deeply, maintaining close relationships with his sons, brothers, cousins, nieces, nephews, and his five grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poppy.” He also loved classic movies, especially those starring Audrey Hepburn, and was a devoted sports fan, particularly of the Colts and the Reds. Steven had an enduring devotion to his cats, Audrey and the late Wu-Tang, who held an especially cherished place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia (Radcliffe) Copler; his father, Donald K. Copler, Sr.; his brother, Christopher R. Copler; and Lorrie Anne (Fletcher) Kemp, the mother of his children.

Steven is survived by his two sons, Christopher “Chris” Robert Copler (Lori) of Powell, OH, and Steven “Joe” Joseph Copler of Pekin, IL; his five grandchildren, Peyton D. Copler, Elijah B. Copler, Emily A. Copler, Chloe A. Kay, and Zoey M. Kay; and his siblings, Donald K. Copler, Jr., Warren E. Copler (Nancy), David G. Copler (Sharon), and Edwin J. Copler (Sandy).

A reception for family and friends in memory of Steven R. Copler will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home in New Albany, IN, on Sunday, September 8, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest privately with military honors at the National Cemetery in New Albany, IN, on Monday, September 9, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pets for Vets in honor of Steven R. Copler. As a proud Navy veteran with a deep affection for cats, Steven would be honored to support this cause.