Obituary of Jackie Eugene Cooper

It is with great sadness that the family of Jackie Eugene Cooper announce his passing in the early hours of July 8th, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jack’s strength and his will to live was made abundantly clear as he repeatedly beat odds that were stacked against him. Jack fought for life until the very end. 

Left to mourn are his devoted wife Lorraine, who was committed to giving him the best possible care during his illness, his two children of whom he was incredibly proud Kimberley (Craig) and Robin (Beverly), his grandchildren, Carson, Vivianna, Briar and Wren who brought him immense joy and unmeasurable pride, his sister Jane Best, nieces Denise Rumbolt (Todd), Terri Heard (Shawn), great nephews Kyle and Mitchell, a large circle of cousins and extended family, close family friends Mary and Michael Batchelor, Guy Marcoux and the McNeil family. Jack may not have always had the words to express how much he loved the people in his life, but his actions spoke louder than any words could. 

Jack was predeceased by his father Eugene, mother Theresa (nee Thevenet), brother in law Raymond Best, grandson Wyatt and great niece Candice.

Jack was a highly respected businessman, and a leader in the outfitting industry- earning recognition for sustainable tourism and measures implemented to protect recreational fishing. He will be remembered for his incredible generosity, for his humour, and for his love of Costco.

Jack had a passion for cooking and entertaining. He welcomed anyone and everyone to his table; the more the merrier. He loved all things nature and outdoors, and was happiest with his dog(s) at his side. 

Anne Marie Lake Lodge was a very special place to Jack, from raising his children there, guiding and entertaining fishing customers, to hosting the boys trips in the fall. The family would like to recognize every person who helped make this place what it meant to Jack. 

Jack similarly held his fall hunting trip to Camp David North in Ontario very near and dear to his heart. He loved this place and its people.

Anyone who had the pleasure of sitting at his dining room table would agree that not many could cook better than Jack. Each meal was meticulously planned, whether it was a rack of lamb, or Kraft Dinner for his grandchildren. And anyone around that table can also likely still hear him asking,“What’s wrong, you don’t like it?”. 

The Cooper family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the doctors and nurses who provided care over the past several years at Labrador Grenfell Health, St. Clair’s Mercy Hospital, and the Health Sciences Center. Special thank you to Dr. Curran, Dr. Harvey, Dr. Rourke and Angie Lawrence. Your care and compassion will forever be remembered. 

Over the past few years and over their many visits to St. John’s, the Coopers received immense support from the McNeil family. Please know how deeply grateful we are. 

The Coopers would also like to thank past and present employees of “the Minipi Family” for their dedication and loyalty over the years. Jack always believed that his employees worked with him, not for him. He appreciated each of you. Your devotion has and continues to make all of the difference. Thank you for working with us, especially during these difficult years.

In lieu of flowers, if desired as an expression of sympathy, a donation can be made to Hope Air.

There will be a celebration of life to honour and remember Jack. Details to follow.