Austin Jack Cooper Jr.

Austin Jack Cooper, Jr., 89, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024 at his home in Lafayette, CO with the love of his life, Joan, his wife of 69 years by his side. Despite his illness, he always displayed grace, courage and his everlasting smile.

Austin was born July 18, 1935 in Jackson, Michigan. He was the only son of Austin and Marion Cooper, Sr. Austin met his future bride in high school and they were married June 25, 1955 in Louisville, KY. He attended University of Indiana where he majored in Business. Austin worked as Quality Control Manager for Johnson Controls Automotive Division in Vincennes, IN.

After vacationing in Colorado for 6 years, he and Joan moved their 4 young daughters to Estes Park. They pursued their dream of owning a business; purchasing and operating the Lazy T Motor Lodge which consisted of a motel, restaurant, gas station and convention center. After selling the motel in 1976, Austin and Joan moved to Boulder, where he resumed employment with Johnson Controls in the Plastics Division. He continued his education at the University of Colorado, where he pursued his passion for History. He retired in 1996.

Austin was a long time member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Boulder. He enjoyed serving as head usher for 40 years and dedicated his time to various church activities.

Austin was an avid sportsman, who enjoyed golfing, basketball and baseball. He even tried out for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1953. Austin constantly amazed friends and family with his knowledge of sports history. He loved watching sports but nothing would get in the way of watching his beloved Denver Broncos.

Austin and Joan loved to travel. They visited all 50 states, traveled to over 100 countries and 6 continents. Travel highlights included annual Mazatlan, Mexico vacations and over 25 cruises culminating in a 111 day "Around the World" cruise.Their biggest joys were experiencing new cultures, unique food and encountering lifelong friends.

When not traveling, Austin enjoyed reading the latest Robert Patterson and Clive Cussler books, working with his roses, chatting with neighbors, playing cards with his family and going to Dairy Queen with his date, Joan for a special treat.

He is survived by his wife Joan, his daughters, Dian (Ken), Kathy (Rick), Karen, Terri, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, son-in-laws Eric Fowler (Karen) and David Himes (Terri).

The memorial service will be at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 4215 Grinnell Ave., Boulder, CO, Friday, December 20, 2024 at 11:00 am with a reception following at the church. A private graveside service will be at Louisville Cemetery following the memorial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to: Stand Up To Cancer (standuptocancer.org) or St. Paul's United Methodist Church referencing the Path Fund.