Gail Edwin Copple

Gail Edwin Copple, 85, of Lawrence, Kansas passed away on September 28, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Gail was born on August 23, 1941, in Delphos, Kansas to Loyd and Mable (Willmarth) Copple. He was united in marriage with Barbara Henry on October 7, 1962, in Miltonvale, KS.

A jack of all trades, in Gail’s early life he helped to connect the nation by building parts of the interstate highway system, poured concrete for missile silos, and worked in a poultry processing plant, a job he despised. After moving to Lawrence he worked as a barber, primarily at the Stadium Barbershop downtown, and owned a trucking company, Reliable Transfer, before moving to Graham trucking, hauling for Hallmark Cards.

His most treasured place was on his farm near Overbrook. He kept livestock throughout his life, always focusing on nursing ill or injured animals back to health. He was one of the last true cowboys.

Gail will be remembered by all for his sense of humor, his kindness, his love for his family, and the twinkle in his eye.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara; two daughters, Marsha (Jack) Flowers, Lori (Lance) Palmer, and one son, Eben (Carolyn) Copple. Grandchildren; Josh (Melanie) Flowers, Evan (Thane) Ringler, Nate Martin, Kylee (Cody) Webster, Max Palmer, Zach Flowers, Ella Palmer, and Arthur Copple. Great-Grandchildren; Brayden Martin, and Grey Ringler. Sisters; Ivanell (Joe) Bulleigh, and Debra Cramer. Brothers; Max (Alice) Copple, Donald (Maria) Copple, and sister-in-law Gayle Copple.

Preceding Gail are his parents, his brothers, Rex Copple, and Loyd Leon, sister, Jolene, and brother-in-law, Steve Cramer.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest Memorial Donations be made to Elara Caring Hospice Foundation. Online at: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/elara-caring-hospice-foundation/2026-elara-caring-hospice-foundation-general-donation-form or mail to: Elara Caring Hospice Foundation at PO Box 58, Jackson, MI 49204