Obituary: Sam Kaplan

Sam Kaplan, age 84, died June 22, 2023, at his home in Atlanta, Ga. Mr. Kaplan was born on Nov. 6, 1938, in Washington, D.C., to parents, Ruben and Clara Kaplan. He graduated from Calvin Coolidge High School and proudly served two years in the U.S. Army Infantry.

Following his time in the Army, he owned and operated The Copper Penny, a hometown restaurant in Richmond, Va. He later worked as a salesman for both roofing and home security companies. He was known to his friends, family and customers as the consummate salesperson and an eternal optimist. Even people who met him for only a few minutes were struck by his charisma, charm, and friendliness. His optimism lasted through his last days, when he kept the hospital staff entertained with his jokes and by singing the showtunes he loved.

His joyful spirit was a constant source of pleasure and motivation for all who knew him. “I could always turn to my dad when I was having a tough time in medical school,” said his son, Craig, now a physician. “He always came through with encouragement, comfort and advice.”

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In his earlier years, Mr. Kaplan was an avid snow skier and motorcycle rider, and even piloted small aircraft. He was also quite the handyman who successfully completed many repair jobs at his home.

Mr. Kaplan loved dining out for special occasions. Nothing was better to him than a Chinese food dinner or a good steak.

He was also a dedicated animal lover, especially cats. He and his wife donated much of their time and resources to feeding and caring for the feral cats in their neighborhood, even taking them to the veterinarian for healthcare at their own expense.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Roxanne Kaplan, and by two sons, Jeff and Craig (husband, Brennan O’Dell) and by four granddaughters Ita, Aliza, Racheli and Esther. The longtime animal lover also left behind his beloved “fur babies,” Annabelle, Fiona, Keesa Jane, and Peaches.

As a memorial, donations may be made to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (www.bestfriends.org) in Moab, Utah. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-9999.