MOUNT VERNON — Ronnie W. “Ron” Copenhaver, 78, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 9:45 am February 21, 2024 at his home.

He was born April 30, 1945 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Wayne and Ruth (Fleck) Copenhaver. Ron married Marilyn (Hill) Copenhaver on April 21, 1973 in Bloomington, Indiana. They were blessed with nearly 51 years of marriage.

In addition to his beloved wife, Ron is survived by son, Adam Copenhaver of Mount Vernon; daughter, Sara Wiggins and husband, Justin of Mount Vernon; grandchildren, Gus Wiggins and Nora Wiggins, both of Mount Vernon; sister, Linda Evans and husband, Jon of Indianapolis, Indiana; brothers-in-Law, John Hill and wife, Jolene and Jay Hill and wife, Lisa, all of Indianapolis; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ron taught high school and middle school in Indianapolis. He was a professor of teacher education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale from 1978 until his retirement in 2006. Ron was a loving, devoted husband, father, and “Pop.” He was a friend and mentor to many.

A Visitation will be held Monday, February 26, 2024 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Funeral Service will begin at 2:00 pm. Inurnment will take place at Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Vernon at a later date.

Memorials may be made in Ron’s honor to the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.