William Gerald Cooper Sr.

William Cooper Obituary

Rev. William Gerald Cooper, Sr. was born in Gering, Nebraska to Miller and Alta Cooper on August 29, 1926. He graduated from Gering High School and immediately went into the Navy to complete 2 years of service in the South Pacific during WWII. Bill graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University with a Music Education degree in 1951. It was here that he met and married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Adams in 1949. He worked in the neon sign business for 3 years. Rev. Bill began his career as a United Methodist minister in Pecatonica and German Valley, Illinois while attending Garrett Theological Seminary. He served United Methodist churches in Colorado in Walden, Broomfield, Littleton, Pueblo, Lakewood and Security. He was also a District Superintendent throughout Colorado and Wyoming for 6 years. He retired from active ministry in June, 1991. He and Gwen enjoyed traveling overseas and across the U.S. with their big fifth wheel trailer. He is survived by Gwen, three children and their spouses - Connie and Gilbert Vigil, Gerry and Kerry Cooper and Rich and Barb Cooper. He was also the proud grandparent of 5: Amy, Bill, Kristin, Cory and Andy and one great granddaughter, Solana. Bill Cooper was a "minister" to many in many ways. He loved to sing and people loved to hear him sing. He was a very humble, loving and giving man. We will miss him greatly. A viewing will be held from 1:00-2:00 on Saturday December 11th at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Pikes Peak Hospice or Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in Security, Colorado.

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Published by The Gazette on Dec. 9, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for William Cooper

7 Entries

Tom Mullis

December 17, 2010

“Uncle Bill” sang at my wedding, and was the presiding Minister of the Gospel at all three of my daughter’s weddings. A wonderful man, a spirit-lead Christian who was an example to many, a great singing voice and an infectious laugh, he was always a warm and comforting presence. We will miss you – I hope that I can run the race and fight the good fight a tenth as well.

Helen Murley

December 15, 2010

Gwen and family,
At a gathering yesterday with "old" St. Paul UM friends I learned of Bill's passing. We all in Pueblo have such warm and loving memories and are very sorry for your loss. I especially feel grateful and honored to have known Rev. Cooper. During my early years at St. Paul I struggled with never being baptized. Having voiced my concerns to Rev. Cooper he immediately took me under his wing and baptized me as an adult on a beautiful Sunday morning at St. Paul. I will always treasure his loving care in bringing me closer to God. I thank you for sharing him with all of us. May you be filled with God's comfort at this sad time for your family.
With much love and sincere sympathy,
Helen Murley, Pueblo, CO

Ruth Burrows-McFetridge

December 13, 2010

Gwen and family, my heart goes out to you as I think of Bill's passing. He was a great help to our family when you were at Phillips UMC. Wonderful memories of special times. May God be your comfort and peace.

Amy Cooper

December 13, 2010

Grandpa,
Never have I experienced so much heartache and so much joy all at once, knowing you're experiencing eternal peace. So proud to be a part of you and who you are, and will continue to be. I am forever grateful that I will have a had a grandpa that I am already missing so much. I love you and always will. I couldn't have asked for more.

Kendra and Bruce Cooper

December 11, 2010

We'll miss Bill's great sense of humor, common sense and life philosophy. He brought an aura of peace to us when we saw him in Nebraska last year, though we did not know it would be our last visit with him. Gwen, the kids and grandkids are in our thoughts and prayers.

CAROLL PHEASANT

December 9, 2010

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Sally Folsom

December 9, 2010

To the Cooper Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was truly a gift from God for many people. As a volunteer Chaplain for HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital he was there for the staff and patients on so many difficult occasions. His kindness and love and faith was so inspiring. His bear hugs were comforting. I loved Bill for all he gave so willingly and graciously and for just being him. I was truly blessed to have known him. He is in a better place and he is healed. You will see him again on day. Gwen, my thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time. Love to you all

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