Obituary of Roger A. Cooper

Roger Cooper, 74 of Endicott passed away on September 22, 2022, with his beloved family by his side. He is predeceased by parents Royal and Marie Cooper, brothers Rick Cooper and Radley Cooper. He is survived by his loving wife Becky Cooper. His daughters Teya (Glenn) Cooper of Endicott, NY, and Crissi Cooper of Endicott, NY. His four grandchildren Trina Cooper, Kyle Cooper, Vincent Spitalsky, and Madeline Severance. His sister Catherine (Dennis) Duckett, several nieces and nephews, and his very close friend Tom Takis. Roger was a board member of Riverhurst Memorial Association and NY State Association of Cemeteries where he was the director. He retired as the superintendent of Riverhurst Cemetery after 45 years of unwavering and dedicated service. Roger was known for his love of life and for making others laugh. He enjoyed playing cards with his pitch pals. His second home was The Skylark Diner where he loved making the staff laugh. He formed a close friendship with owner Walter Stevens. Roger was a licensed pilot and helicopter operator. He owned and operated C&H Aviation a flight instructing school with his dear friend John Hrebek. He put together Tri-Cities airport days with his very close friend Gary Gelinger. He was a collector and lover of cars. He had a profound respect for veterans. Roger loved the beach, sun, and sand between his toes. He had an immense dedication to his health and fitness. He spent endless hours at American Family Fitness forming many friendships and mentored gym members. The gym is where he formed a close friendship with owner Brian Andrulewich. He competed in powerlifting. He earned his black belt from Sensei and friend Bob Wright in Kyokushin Karate one of his proudest accomplishments at age 62. Most of all he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and loyal friend. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, from 4 PM to 7 PM, and Wednesday, September 28, 2022, from 10 AM until the time of the funeral service at 11 AM at Coleman and Daniels Funeral Home, 300 E. Main St. Endicott, NY. Burial will follow at Riverhurst Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the American Heart Association.