Jennifer M. (Kuk) Copeland, a cherished mother, daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, niece and friend, passed away on October 17, 2024, in Mishawaka, IN, at the age of 46 after a very brave and courageous battle with cancer. ▶︎
Born on April 5, 1978 in Findlay, OH to Lawrence J. Kuk Jr. and Laura J. (husband James) Vance, she was the oldest of three daughters. Jennifer's warm smile and vibrant spirit brought joy to all who knew her.
Graduating from Mayfield High School (Ohio) in 1996 and later earning a Bachelor's Degree from Kent State University in 2002, Jennifer developed her love for journalism and reporting. She began her broadcasting career at FOX 8 Cleveland, OH as a producer, near where she grew up. Jennifer then became a reporter at WSBT in South Bend, IN before making stops at WICD Champaign, IL, WCNC Charlotte, NC, and KTSP Minneapolis, MN. She then moved back to the South Bend area where she was a revered news anchor at ABC 57 and WSBT 22, touching the lives of the entire Michiana community through her charity work, dedicated storytelling, and inviting on-screen presence.
Jennifer's greatest love was for her family, especially her daughters, Addison and Isabelle Copeland. She raised them with boundless love and instilled in them the values of compassion and generosity. Her own light was reflected in the lives of her sisters, Jacqueline Kuk and Sarah (husband Nicholas) Sofia, and her adoring nephews, Tyler and Owen Sofia. She is the beloved granddaughter of Lawrence J. Kuk Sr. and Isabelle (Smith) Lanese. Her life was enriched by many amazing friends. Jennifer is preceded in death by her Grandfather, Pasquale Lanese, and Grandmother, Grace (Pace) Kuk.
An enthusiast of the great outdoors, Jennifer found serenity in traveling to national and state parks. She loved to hike with her dog, Levi, any chance she got. She found the most joy in spending time with her girls, taking many adventures including day trips, vacations, horse back riding, volleyball games and beach days. These experiences only magnified her appreciation for life's simple pleasures.
Jennifer radiated love and light wherever she went, with her warm heart and infectious smile. She believed everyone should find their joy, choose happy, and follow their dreams. Jennifer encouraged and motivated others to believe in themselves. Her legacy will forever be cherished by those she leaves behind and her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.
A public visitation will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Palmer Community Complex located at 601 N. Michigan St. Lakeville, IN 46536.
Memorial contributions may be left in Jennifer’s name to GSC Project for GYN Carcinosarcoma at https://gcsproject.org/
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/
