Carmen John Copani, 85, of Winter Haven, Florida passed away October 3, 2023 at Winter Haven Hospital Winter Haven, Florida. He was born on April 8, 1938 in Batavia, New York to Samuel and Mary (Aquino) Copani. Carmen was a retired Engineer in the Water Plant Industry. Carm (Papa) was an avid bowler, golfer, outdoorsman, Buffalo Bills fan, and loved spending time with family and friends. He was known for his handyman skills, helping others in the Batavia/Winter Haven communities. He was a coach and a mentor to girls' softball and boys' baseball teams. Carm was also a master storyteller, quick with a joke and befriended everyone he met. Throughout his 85 years, he impacted the lives of numerous people. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.
Carmen also served honorably in the United States Navy on the USS Wasp Air force Carrier from 1956-1961 as an E3.
He volunteered to be a part of the Air Rescue Team as a Pilot/Recovery Swimmer.
Carmen is survived by: his wife of 62 years Sandra. 2 daughters; Marygrace (Doug) Glotfelty of Mansfield, Texas and Virginia (Jerry) Lovelace of Lake Alfred, Florida; son Michael (Janet) Copani of Byron, New York. 9 grandchildren, Kristi Copani, Jacklyn (Tyler) Seger, Brandi (James) Wentworth, Clayton Lovelace, Jacob (Alicia Bowen) Lovelace, Lauren Glotfelty, Joshua Glotfelty, Connor Copani, and Samantha Copani. 7 great grandchildren; Corby, Kyri, Ryker, Lilliana, Colt, Elijah, and Carmen. He also leaves to cherish his memory, brother Jack (Carol) Copani, sister Grace (Jim) Deni and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by: his parents, sisters, Josephine, Mary, Nicola, and Sandy.
The family will receive friends at Steele's Family Funeral Services on October 11, 2023 from 3:00PM - 4:00PM Memorial services will be at 4PM with Pastor Richard Hanley (Pastor Murphy) officiating. Memorials may be made to St. Jude's Childrens Hospital.
Celebration of life will be scheduled in Batavia, New York at a later date.
Thank you for your support.
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