It is with deep sorrow yet profound peace that we announce the passing of Norwood "Coop" Cooper Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who peacefully departed this life at the age of 95, finding eternal rest with his Savior in heaven.
Coop was born in 1928 on South Presa in San Antonio, near the historic Hot Wells. He spent his formative years in Brookshire, where he attended Katy High School. There, he showcased his talents both on the football field and in the band, where he played the trombone. His father, a skilled jeweler known for his ability to fix anything mechanical, greatly influenced Coop’s work ethic and problem-solving skills.
After high school, Coop took on the challenging and demanding work of a roughneck in the oil fields. His dedication and hard work prepared him for a life of service and adventure. He joined the United States Air Force, serving as a navigator and flying missions throughout the Pacific and Far East after World War II. His expertise and leadership led him to launch and direct the Navigation School at Keesler Air Force Base.
While serving his country, Coop pursued higher education, earning a civil engineering degree with a specialty in hydrology from the University of Wyoming. His final role in the Air Force was as a commander responsible for the maintenance and readiness of Minuteman Missile facilities. He retired honorably in 1970, facing and overcoming bladder cancer with unwavering determination and a rigorous regimen of nutrition and exercise.
Post-retirement, Coop moved to San Marcos, Texas, and later worked in San Antonio as a professional engineering consultant and surveyor on significant projects, including the renowned River Walk and Medical Center. In the early 1990s, he settled at Canyon Lake, where he enjoyed daily fishing and became a dedicated volunteer in his community.
Coop was a man of deep Christian faith. He was married to his beloved wife, Marian, with whom he raised three sons. His love for his family was evident in everything he did. Though he faced the profound losses of his wife and one of his sons, Bryan, his strength and faith remained unwavering.
An avid outdoorsman, Coop found great joy in hunting, camping, fishing, and gardening. He loved the outdoors and spent countless hours enjoying nature’s beauty. He was an avid fixer of things and thrived on helping others. Norwood also had a deep love for dogs and enjoyed daily jogs and walks with his loyal companions.
His interests in genealogy, research, and lifelong learning kept him mentally sharp until his final days. Through his diligent genealogy research, Coop discovered that he was a direct descendant of Martin Parmer, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence, who is buried in the Texas State Cemetery in Austin. This remarkable discovery led to the Cooper family's inclusion in the Texas First Families registry.
His methodical and studious nature was evident in everything he undertook, from his professional work to his personal hobbies. Above all, Coop cherished his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and pride. His legacy of kindness, wisdom, and service will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by his two sons, David, and Kenneth, and their spouses, and five grandchildren and their spouses; his sister, Faye, and numerous nieces and nephews. While the family mourns his loss, they also find solace in the assurance that he is now in the presence of his Savior, reunited with his loved ones who passed before him.
A memorial service will be held at San Marcos City Cemetery pavilion on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
Rest in peace, Coop. Your life was a testament to dedication, resilience, and love, and you will be deeply missed by all who knew you.
*All obituaries are submitted by family and friends of the deceased.
Please enter the amount you would like to give and click continue.
