Hansford (Hoot) Hestand Cooper

1-21-1936 to 1-20-2014

77, passed on 1-20-2014, one day shy of turning 78. Hoot was born in Mt Vernon Texas and moved with his family to Az in 1946. He graduated from Coolidge High School, married and had three children. He moved his family to Phoenix in 1966 and became a Master Welder. Eventually he and his wife owned and operated Sun State Steel from 1970 to 1993. From there they retired and traveled the United States, camping, fishing, dancing and playing cards with family and friends along the way. He loved people of all ages and kept us laughing most of the time. He never knew a stranger and opened his door to everyone. Every AM he went to the local café and swapped stories, jokes and laughs with his buddies. He loved life. He built a workshop in his back yard which became his second home. There he constructed projects and gifts for family and friends. He was a Master at most trades. He as so special and loved by many and will be very much missed. He was preceded in death by his Father Edgar, Mother Golden, Brother G.W. (Sambo) and Sister Bonnie. Survivors include his wife Mary of 59 1/2 years, Sister Connie, Daughters Leslie, Susan, and Kathy, Son-in-laws Tom, Frank and Vince, Grandchildren Stephanie, Quinton, Angela, Johnnie and Amanda and Great Grandchildren Matthew, Joshua, and Marley. A Memorial and Reception will be held on January 31, 2014, 1PM at The Cooper Home.