Gary Dean Cooper, Sr.

Cooper, Gary, Dean found peace on April 5th, 2023, at the age of 89.

Born in South Bend, Indiana, on December 11, 1933, to John & Lillian Cooper (nee Woods). If you asked Gary, his greatest accomplishment in life wasn’t his long and successful career, it was being a father and a grandfather. He will always be remembered for his love of family, his wonderful sense of humor, his love of everything Wisconsin (including its land and animals), small towns, festivals and restaurants, Green Bay Packer’s football, and food (especially Culver’s, but when driving out of state his first stop was always White Castle’s). He was a wonderful cook, loved trying new recipes, was notorious for his brown pea soup, a legend for his biscuits and gravy, and a master of the grill. He was also a lover of cars and trucks and was always up to date on the latest models and trends. He was a Veteran of the Air Force and served our nation honorably during the Korean War.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42, almost 43 years this May, Bobbye Spector (nee Willis). They met while both working for International Harvester Trucks; when roses failed to woo her, he went with a grocery store mum, and the rest was history. He was kind, loving, her soulmate, her gentle giant, and his sense of humor sustained her and others even through his decline. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Cooper; sister, Sue Cooper-Light; devoted son, Gary Cooper Jr. (Susan); beloved daughters: Lisa Sexton, Christine Spector-Olmsted (Peter), and Robyn Spector; 11 amazing grandchildren; 9 cherished great-grandchildren; a multitude of treasured nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.

Gary was predeceased by both of his parents; his daughter, Connie; & granddaughter, Ashley.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

People wishing to honor Gary’s lifelong commitment to family and community can make donations in his memory to the Jackson Trail Park for a park bench in his memory. Please send all donations to The Gary Dean Cooper Memorial Bench Fund, Town of Westport, attention Dean Grosskopf, 5387 Mary Lake Road, Waunakee, WI 53597. Gary’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Agrace Hospice for their compassionate care.