January 2nd, 1930 – September 21st, 2021
Richard Bruce Cooper (Dick) passed away on the ranch in Turner Valley on September 21, 2021, at the age of 91.Dick was born in Edmonton, January 2, 1930, to Irish immigrant parents Bruce and Marjorie Cooper. He was raised and schooled in Edmonton and received his electrician certificate in 1952.
He married Charis Blakley on January 30, 1954 in Edmonton. They lived there for the next nine years, where Dick plied his trade, and where their three children were born. In 1963 the foothills and mountains were calling, so Dick and Charis moved the family to a property in the Millarville/Turner Valley area.
Dick continued to work as an electrician for the next thirty or so years, and his work took him to many parts of Canada. He was one of the pioneers building the infrastructure of the oil sands near Fort McMurray. In the latter part of his career he worked in Libya. When he retired, Dick had time to enjoy hobbies such as beer and wine making, travelling, and especially hunting.
Dick made sure that he spent quality time with all his family. He made trips to Lacey and Dale’s ranch for brandings and special occasions. He would meet up with Tim and Sue to enjoy lunches and wine tastings. Almost every year, he would travel to Australia and spend time at Noreen and Peter’s farm. Dick became a big part of the Australian community. He enjoyed teaching his grandchildren crib, card games and special Grandpa Cooper recipes.
Dick is survived by his wife Charis; his son Timothy (Susan) Cooper; his daughters Lacey (Dale) Pfahl, Noreen (Peter) Arthur; his grandchildren Carson Pfahl, Jesslyn (Abby) Saran, and Joe Arthur; and his great grandson Jameson Saran.
Dick touched the lives of everyone he met and their lives were enriched for having known him. He was an all-time character. His legacy will live on with his family and his many friends.
To email condolences please visit www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com Arrangements in Care of Snodgrass Funeral Home Okotoks 403-938-3111.
