Walt Copland's Obituary
Walter William Copland, born to Emily (Cull) and William Copland on July 15, 1941 in San Francisco, California, passed away on March 16th, 2023 at the age of 81.
Growing up in the Mission district of San Francisco he attended Balboa High School until the family moved to Montara-by-the-Sea where he graduated from Half Moon Bay High School in 1957.
Following High School, Walt joined the US Army and was stationed at Kitzingen AAF, Germany. Walt enjoyed his time in Germany, he met and married his first wife there. Walt was transferred to Fort Lewis, where he left the military, had two children, and started a new career.
In 1968 Walt was hired by the Tacoma Police Department where he developed into an exceptional leader. He achieved the rank of Captain, and led the Criminal Investigations, Traffic, and Operations North units. He earned multiple valor and lifesaving awards during his 27 year career, retiring in 1995. While working at TPD, Walt met his second wife, and they welcomed a child.
Walt was always an active community member throughout his police career and into retirement. He was a proud member of the Elks Lodge, a member of the American Legion, and member of the Daffodil Festival Board, serving as the president in 1989. Following retirement, Walt met his third wife through his participation with the Daffodil Festival.
Walt will be remembered by all who knew him for his love of all things music, boats, and a good bad joke. He never failed to make those around him laugh. He is survived by his sister, three children, three stepchildren, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
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