Goldie LaWanda Cooper

LaWanda was born January 14, 1928 on the family farm near Michigan Valley, KS to John Henry McKay and Lucy Lelah Morrow McKay. She attended school in Michigan Valley graduating from high school in 1946. After high school she worked in the grocery store at Michigan Valley for two years before moving to Ottawa, KS to work. Shortly after moving to Ottawa she met the love of her life, Johnnie Cooper. They were married February 3, 1950 in Ottawa, KS.

As a young Air Force wife, she accompanied Johnnie wherever he was stationed; Wyoming, Florida, Germany, and New Mexico. In 1961 they returned to Olathe, Kansas to make their home and raise their two sons closer to family. During those years, LaWanda did in home child care.

LaWanda enjoyed crafts, especially crochet. She loved making things for her family and friends. Each Christmas she would have an ornament made for each and every family member. As her eyesight began to fail she made several years’ ornaments ahead to be able to continue the tradition.

LaWanda’s greatest love was her family. Spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her much happiness. Her grandchildren have many fond memories of Grandma taking them to movies, making popcorn, teaching them to play card games and playing Aggravation on the old wooden game board. LaWanda was a faithful member of Grace United Methodist church in Olathe for many years.

LaWanda was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, three sisters, and her husband, Johnnie Cooper on August 30, 2006. She is survived by her sons, Max Cooper and wife Mary, Drexel, Mo and Randy Cooper and wife Mary, Clearwater, FL. She also leaves one grandson, five granddaughters, and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Private graveside services were held on September 30, 2020 at Olathe Memorial Cemetery.