Don just taught me a final lesson: don’t put things off.
For several years, I have thought off and on that I should get in touch with him, give/get a hug, and tell him what he meant to me. This morning when I read the obit, I realized that boat had sailed. So I’ll share with you.
In 1976, I moved to SLC for what I thought would be two years while my then-husband worked on his dissertaition research at the U. I had been a teacher, but couldn’t find a teaching job and became a Title I aide at Glendale. By December, I was a long-term sub there, replacing a teacher on maternity leave, and then took a full-time position the next fall, which I held for three years.
I became acquainted with Don and was so impressed with him, his commitment, and his caring for all, but especially the way in which he worked with students and their families. I had never heard of such a thing as a school social worker, but after watching Don in action, I aspired to become one. He recommended me for grad school, helped me finesse fulfilling my internship hours while teaching full-time, and recommended me for my social work job in the Granite School District.
At the same time (in April of that first school year) I found myself divorced and a long way from family and friends in Texas. Don took me under his wing, and I knew I wasn’t alone.
I very much enjoyed my time as a school social worker and went on to become an elementary school principal. I credit Don in large part for helping me build the foundation for what has been a happy and productive life.
Marilyn (Cabe) Copeland