Westborough Loses Purple Heart Recipient, Engineering Executive

If you know of a person who was a current or former resident of Westborough before they died, and they are not mentioned here, add them to the list in the comments field.

Roy K. Millward, 89, of Westborough, died Monday, May 14, at UMass/Memorial Healthcare- Memorial Hospital in Worcester. He was the husband of Rita R. (Finnegan) Millward. Born in Auburn, he was the son of the late William and Annie (Weblin) Millward and was educated in Auburn schools. He was an Army veteran of World War II and received the Purple Heart after being wounded in action. Mr. Millward was employed as an assistant physical therapist at the VA Hospital’s in West Roxbury, Jamaica Plain and Worcester prior to his retirement. He was a communicant of a member of the D.A.V. and AARP. He was an avid sports fan, enjoying the Boston Bruins, Red Sox and Celtics. In addition to his wife, he leaves one niece, Cheryl Archembeault of Auburn. He was the brother of the late Richard S. Millward. Services were held the weekend of May 19.

John S. Copeland, 81, of Northborough, formerly of Westborough, died Wednesday, May 16. He was the husband of Jean S. (Staken) Copeland. Born in Iowa City, Iowa, he was the son of the late Paul and Gertrude (Phelps) Copeland. He was educated in Chicago schools and was a graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology. He also attended Case Western Reserve in Ohio. During the post -Korean Conflict era he served with the U. S. Air Force, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. John was an experienced engineering executive for multiple corporations in the United States and Belgium. He was a licensed pilot and instructor and was a very active member of the Experimental Aircraft Association where he was currently serving on the board of directors. He also volunteered his services for The Young Eagles and was a member of the Baha’i faith. He has been a resident of Northborough for 14 years previously living in Westborough for many years. In addition to his wife, he leaves his three children, Jeffrey P. Copeland and his wife, Mary, of Holden, Jerri L. Holland and her husband, James, of Hopkinton and Jeanine A. Deranian of Grafton; one brother, William C. Copeland of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio and 12 grandchildren. He was the father of the late June B. Kangas. The funeral was held Monday from , with a graveside service at . In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vintage Aircraft Association, A Division of EAA, PO Box 3086, Oshkosh, WI 54902.