Copeland Mitchell Draper Jr. (Mitch), 96, formerly from Milton, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2022. Son of Copeland Mitchell Draper Sr. and Mildred Haire, Mitch was born on September 4, 1925 in Milton where he would later raise his own family.
Mitch was educated at Middlesex School in Concord, MA. In 1944, he graduated with a war diploma and proudly served in the US Marines, 6th division, Okinawa, Singtao. Upon his honorable discharge and return from China, he married his high school “sweetheart” Cheeky in June,1947 while attending Harvard University. Mitch made his career working in the insurance business as partner at O’Brion Russell & Co., Boston.
Mitch was involved in Milton town politics and served many years as Chairman of the Planning Board and as a Town Meeting member. For fun, Mitch & Cheeky were very active in the Milton Hoosic Club where he served on the Board of Directors and as Club President (1970-1972) retaining his membership for 76 years. He was also an active member and served on various boards of the First Parish Unitarian Church of Milton.
Mitch was most proud of his role of father and husband. Known affectionately to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as “Bear”, Mitch treasured his large, loving family, and was most at peace when they were all together at the Draper family home on Squirrel Island, ME. His spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of the many people he touched in his lifetime, and in the daily prayer he humbly led at dinnertime that has been passed on through the generations: “For this food, for health, for life, for God above, let us be truly thankful.”
Mitch was preceded in death by his beloved wife Elizabeth “Cheeky” Perkins Draper and three children, Elizabeth Draper Graycar, Copeland M. Draper III, and Edward Haskins Draper. He is survived by his daughter Elly Draper Pendergast of Weston, his children’s spouses Kim Draper, Barbara Draper Millett and Paul Graycar, many loving grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Alice Draper Williams of Concord.
A celebration of life is planned for the summer of 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in Mitch’s honor and memory to the Squirrel Island Preservation Foundation, Squirrel Island, ME 04570.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of the John C. Bryant Funeral Home of Wayland. For condolences please visit www.johncbryantfuneralhome.com.