David Cooper

Cooper, David T. age 57 of New Brighton, was born in Minneapolis on March 5, 1954, to Lois Mae Johnson and Thomas Edward Cooper. He died unexpectedly on October 17, 2011. David's fondest memories of growing up in Coon Rapids were of his explorations along the Mississippi River just like his favorite characters in Mark Twain. He loved to tell about his camping experiences as a Boy Scout and an Eagle Scout. Summers at the lake in Annandale with his grandfather were also wonderful boyhood memories.
David's love of the outdoors led him to his first career in soil conservation and water quality resource education. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a B.S. and the University of Missouri-Columbia with an M.S. His happiest days in his career were at the University of Missouri traveling around the state of Missouri educating rural and urban audiences about soil conservation. From Missouri, he moved to Purdue University, and then back to the University of Minnesota to manage education and research projects. He then changed careers, and for the last ten years, he worked in advertising sales for Advantage Tape Advertising. David married his wife Barbara in 1979 in Columbia, Missouri. In the twelve years before the children were born, they enjoyed their travels together—from Alaska to Washington, D.C. and the Gulf Shores of Alabama. Every trip together was a great adventure.
David and Barbara's greatest joys were their children Grant (born in 1991) and Paige (born in 1993). David was so proud of his children's accomplishments. He told everyone about them: neighbors at the mailbox, people at church and at work, and friends he met at the grocery store. Paige and her dad went on camping trips and to orchestra concerts together. He also took her to the East Coast to tour colleges. Dave worked hard to make her exchange year in France happen. Dave was so proud that Grant shared his interest in geology. They also shared great times playing Axis and Allies, watching war movies, camping, hiking, and just sharing meals together.
David was a faithful member of St. Philip's Lutheran Church in Fridley, where he served as an usher, committee member and as an offering counter.
There aren't nearly enough words to describe such a treasured and beloved life who will be missed and remembered forever.
Preceded in death by mother, Lois. Survived by wife of 32 years, Barbara; children, Grant and Paige Cooper; father, Thomas (Dorothy) Cooper; sisters, Susan (John) Koffski, Patricia Cooper (Richard Edlich); step-sisters, Sharon Moline and Susan Doyle; nephew, Erik (Amy) Koffski; niece, Jenny Koffski. Memorial Service Tuesday 11 AM with visitation one hour prior at St. Philip's Lutheran Church, 6180 Hwy 65 NE, Fridley. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.
Miller Funeral Home
Fridley Chapel 763-571-1300
www.millerfuneralfridley.com