A man of love, Dean Cooper, of Niceville, Florida was unexpectedly taken by a stroke on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at age 86.
Dean passed away cradled by the love of his family. Dean spent his life serving others. His hallmark was kindness and respect for everyone, with never a negative word about anyone. If asked why he is so nice to someone who did not seem to deserve it, Dean would reply, ""You catch more bees with honey than vinegar."" Deans greatest pleasure in life was serving family, friends, or even stangers. Once asked why he did so much for others, he simply replied, "That's what I do."
Dean was born In Syracuse, Utah on December 7th, 1933, to Heber William Cooper and Marguerite Helen Cooper (Sandoz). He grew up in Syracuse making life-long friends: Max Bodily, Ben Sessions, and most importantly, Mary Lee Christensen, the love of his life. Dean and Mary were married in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 4, 1956, married for 64 years, only now separated temporarily by death. Their family was sealed for eternity in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple. Dean was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
He was a devoted Civil Servant and Chief Master Sergeant for the United States Air Force Reserves. He spent many years as a community and high school sports official. He enjoyed sports of all kinds, playing basketball and golf his entire life, shooting a 90 in golf the day he passed.
Dean is survived by his wife, Mary Cooper, his children Wesley (Martha) Cooper, Mitchel (Laurie) Cooper, Deana Chapman, Darren (Angela) Cooper, and Jeremy (Erlene) Cooper, his 24 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, and a sister, Orleen McMillan.
Dean was preceded in death by is parents, and 13 siblings Henrietta, Heber, Emma, Andrew, Orson, Chester, Lila, Vivian, Ruth, Loraine, Elsie, Valjean, and Therlo. He loved them all and is loved by all.
Services will be held at 1100 Palm Blvd S, Niceville, FL 32578 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on March 14, 2020 at 12:00 pm. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service. A private Interment will be held.