Saturday, September 25, 2021

The Passing of a Generation

 

When my dad, Richard Copeland, retired from teaching  in Logansport, Indiana 30 years ago, he and his retired colleagues started meeting for breakfast every Tuesday morning at a local diner. The group originally consisted of about 30 retired male teachers, many of them coaches. As of today, there are only two left to carry on the tradition. 

Just a few days ago, Coach Jim Turner, age 90, who lead the Logan Berries to state baseball championships, joined the angels. He was a good man, an honorable American history teacher, and a beloved baseball coach.

When I was a junior in high school, I talked him into allowing me to study independently since I was already a history buff. I focused on American Civil War naval battles. He gave me the ability to stretch my mind while still achieving the credits I needed to graduate. That is what separates the good teachers from the great. He gave me the opportunity to stretch my knowledge. 45 years later I am still grateful.

Now, the Tuesday morning gathering is reduced to two, my dad(Richard Copeland) and Rich Wild. They’ve been friends for decades. They do not always agree on the current political situation. But they have a collective history and the memories of their retired teacher friends  that they continue to honor. 

Keep the faith Daddy & Mr. Wild. Uphold the tradition. 






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