Gary Martin Cooper

Gary was born in Congress, Ohio on November 18, 1928. He was the son of Don K. and Pauline Cooper. Gary later moved to Ashland, and was a graduate of Ashland High School and Ashland College where he played basketball for both. During his college years, he ran a bulldozer for Cooper Brothers Construction. He was the Vice President Treasurer of the Lumbermens Insurance Company. Gary served in the United States Air National Guard.

He met the love of his life, Betty Schag, at the roller skating rink. She became his wife and they shared 70 blessed years of marriage together. Gary and Betty built a wonderful life together. He was a devoted husband, cherished father, and adored grandfather and great-grandfather. One of his favorite memories were family vacations with his family. He was actively involved in their lives and loved attending their sporting events.

Gary loved the Lord, and his strong faith was what helped him in life. He was a member of the Main Street Methodist Church where he sang in the choir and faithfully served the church.

Gary had a love of sports. He was an avid golfer, and he enjoyed bowling. He coached Little League Baseball and played fast pitch softball.

Gary leaves behind his wife, Betty (Schag) Cooper; his children, Kay (Terry) Thompson and Mark (Amanda) Cooper; his grandchildren, Cole (Cara) Cooper, Seth (Kristin) Cooper, Evan Cooper, Whitney Thompson, Cameron (Amber) Thompson, Jordann (Marcus) Adams, Emily (Nick) Santoriella, and Garrett (Tayler) Salser; and his great-grandchildren, Rollin, Ketti, Carter, Lilly, Josie, Reese, Walker, Sofia, Cooper, Clara, Peyton, Wade, Graham, Luca, Frankie, Niko, Kellen, Brystol, Delainey, and Callen; and sisters, Bonnie Halterman and Patricia Clarkson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Richard, William and Kay Cooper; and his step mother, Pauline Cooper.

The family will observe private services.

Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Wappner is honored to serve the Cooper family.