Lorraine Marie Cooper

Lorraine M. Cooper passed, peacefully, away on Saturday, April 25, 2015. Never mind the numbers, had she written this compulsory notice herself they would have been blissfully omitted. Age was of little relevance to my grandmother. Life could always be improved with a slice of cake or a good Johnny Cash song. Lorraine took fashion advice from no one, found a mélange of culinary uses for tomato soup, and cared for her spiteful cat as if he were her newborn baby. Although she did not belong to a local knitting club, or volunteer any service hours, she routinely touched the lives of those around her, often bursting into seemingly unprecedented laughter followed by remarkable stories. Like many women of her generation, she found her soul mate early in life. Alongside husband and best friend, Darrel R. Cooper Sr., she raised four children, eight grandchildren, at least five great-grandchildren, and several content animals. Her life revolved mostly around selflessly caring for others, with the occasional neighborly competition over who could grow the most aesthetically pleasing basket of petunias. To be sure, Lorraine belonged to a rare breed of women—those who made the kitchen table a sacred place, knew by heart a home remedy for everything (even a bad day), and unapologetically served liver and onions as a main course. My grandmother once said, “If I ever die, it will be after your grandpa; the only thing can kill me is a broken heart.” I truly believe she meant this. We’re often called “survivors,” as if death were some ghastly storm rather than a stage of life. Many of us remain to carry on her legacy of compassion: two sons, Darel Cooper, Jr., and his wife Amy; and Gary Cooper; a daughter, Susan Copeland; also grandchildren; Jason and his wife Nina; Josh and his wife Brittany; Iris and Aaron; Crista and her husband Ryan and Ashley and her husband Zack; and Jesse and Brandon; also numerous great grandchildren. Her husband Darel preceded her in death, as did her daughter Terry Fedorka. Others remain, several friends who will undoubtedly miss her jovial presence. Yet, it is my contention that Lorraine would not have wanted anyone to wallow in despondency over her passing. She would, instead, sternly demand a celebration of her life. In light of Lorraine’s radiant spirit, the family suggests acts of random kindness be made. While funeral plans are pending, any inquiries should be directed to Darel Cooper, Jr. As she herself would say, “God bless. Have some cake and be happy.” A service for Lorraine, will be held at the family's convenience. Roofner-Collins-Warren Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc, 544 Chestnut Street has been entrusted with the care of arrangements. Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence with the family on Lorraine's Book of Memories online at www.roofnercollinswarrenfh.com