Robert E. Cope

Robert Edward Cope, 62, of Niantic, Conn. and formerly of Warren, beloved husband of 28 years to Sandra (Jayne, Carcelli) Cope, died peacefully at home Friday, June 29, 2007 after a valiant struggle with pancreatic cancer.

He was born February 11, 1945 in Pittsburgh, Pa., a son of the late Arthur and Dora (Keller) Cope. Although he lived most of his life in Northeast Ohio, he enjoyed life in Southeastern Connecticut.

Besides his wife, he leaves a daughter, Rebecca Roche of Columbus, Ohio; a son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Lauren Cope of West Chester, Ohio; five grandchildren: Andrew and Natalie Cope, Samual, Thomas, and Edward Swift; two brothers: William of Grove City, Ohio, and James of New Zealand.

Bob graduated in 1963 from Warren G. Harding High School, and also attended Bowling Green University and Kent State University. He was a long-time broadcast professional, having worked 44 years in Northeast Ohio, Florida, Florida, and Connecticut broadcasting. In the Mahoning Valley, he worked at several radio stations, including WHHH, WHOT, and WKBN. Professionally, he earned the RAB Diamond Certified Radio Marketing Consultant certificate and was a member of the Hall Communication Million Dollar Club, of which he was most proud. Bob was employed with Hall Communications as a Radio Sales Consultant.

In Ohio, he was actively involved in the fraternal order of Freemasons and a member of Carroll F. Clapp Lodge #655, F. & A.M. He served as Master of his lodge, 25th District Education Officer, and District Deputy Grand Master of the 25th District. He had also been involved in York Rite, Scottish Rite, Shrine, and Eastern Star. Bob also worked on numerous other committees and organizations in his community.

While living in Niantic, he became active serving on The Economic Development Commission, The East Lyme Democratic Town Committee, The Niantic Main Street Board of Directors, and the Charter Revision Commission.

Bob enjoyed travel and was an avid history reader. He studied aspects of the Civil War and Ancient Egypt most of his life. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends for his easy smile and quick wit.

A memorial service will be held 4:00 p.m. Saturday, July 7, 2007 at McFarland & Son Funeral Home, with Rev. Curt Miller of Mineral Ridge United Methodist Church officiating. Friends may call 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. A Masonic service conducted by Carroll F. Clapp Lodge #655, F.& A.M. will be held 3:45 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Material contributions may be made in his name to Hospice Southeastern Connecticut, 179 Gallivan Lane, P.O. Box 902, Uncasville, Conn. 06382-0902. Memorial services are also being held in Connecticut.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland & Son Funeral Services Co., 271 North Park Avenue, Warren, Ohio 44481. Please visit www.mcfarlandfuneral.com to view this obituary and send condolences.