January 29, 1934 - November 23, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to William John Cooper.
Survived by his wife of 66 years, Jennifer, his sister Jane (Hugh) of England, daughter Karen (Mike), grandson Owen, as well as the extended family who remain in England.
John as he was known, immigrated to Canada in 1957 and served in the RCAF/CAF, was co-owner of an auto supply store, worked for SD71, and AKVA.
He was an avid football (soccer) fanatic rooting his entire life for Manchester United, a team he could have played for, but in those days an apprentice electrician made more money.
He had a profound love of horses. We are referring to betting on his British favourites from a young boy; known as the 'kid' at the track and taking his winnings at Ascot to refurbish bikes to resell. This love never died, as for many years we had to endure listening to the races early in the morning over the UHF radio with all the static and dad screaming his horse on.
Travel was a passion, having done so throughout his military career and playing for the military soccer team around the world, as well as his, and his wife's personal travels.
Sailing ranked high on his list once he moved to Comox in 1974. There was only ever one to beat, Sid. As his friend Trond said, he had some good comments on the racecourse, which many we can not mention, but one comment to Chris was, 'there is a lot of water here Chris...I walk my dog here all the time.'
In later years, the coffee club was the group he hung out with six mornings a week. What these old boys talked about day in and day out, we'll never know.
He had an excellent sense of humour, was a very humble person, a great friend, and will be missed by many.
At John's request, there will be no service.