Obituary of John J. Cooper

John J. Cooper, 83, of Syracuse, NY passed away Sunday, July 3,2016 at home surrounded by the love of his family. He was born October 8, 1932 in Albany, NY to Charles and Helen (Harter) Cooper. He grew up in Brookview, NY, and received an assoc. degree from Hudson Valley Community College. He was proud to have served in the US Navy as an electrician on board the USS Ashland. John retired from DataCard Corp after many years as a field service technician. Since 1961, he was actively involved in the Masons, and for many years enjoyed volunteering as a Shrine clown. In costume, and out, he was known as “Jay Jay.” He was a long-time member of James Street United Methodist Church. John donated blood to the American Red Cross 175 times in his life, giving 22 gallons. What he loved most was his time with his family, especially his two granddaughters. John was a man dedicated to helping others and brightening the lives of those he encountered. John is survived by his wife of 58 years, Hilde (Rheinhardt), his daughter Melissa (John) Faley, his brother Peter (Marcia) Cooper, and his two granddaughters, Zoë and Phoebe. A memorial service will be held at 10 am on Tuesday, July 12 at University United Methodist Church, 324 University Ave, Syracuse, NY 13210 In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to the Shriners Childrens hospital. (www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/donate).