Memorial for Austin Cooper

 

Link to memorial service: Memorial for Austin Cooper 12-20-24
Link to family memory video: Austin Cooper

Austin Jack Cooper, Jr., 89, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024, at his home in Lafayette, Colorado, with the love of his life, Joan, his wife of 69 years, by his side.  Despite his illness, he always displayed grace, courage, and his everlasting smile.

Austin was born July 18, 1935, in Jackson, Michigan.  He was the only son of Austin and Marion Cooper, Sr.  Austin met his future bride in high school, and they were married June 25, 1955, in Louisville, Kentucky.  He attended University of Indiana, where he majored in Business.  Austin worked as Quality Control Manager for Johnson Controls Automotive Division in Vincennes, Indiana.

After vacationing in Colorado for six years, he and Joan moved their four young daughters to Estes Park.  They pursued their dream of owning a business, purchasing and operating the Lazy T Motor Lodge, which consisted of a motel, restaurant, gas station, and convention center.  After selling the motel in 1976, Austin and Joan moved to Boulder, where Austin resumed employment with Johnson Controls in the Plastics Division.  He continued his education at the University of Colorado, where he pursued his passion for history.  He retired in 1996.

Austin was a long-time member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Boulder.  He enjoyed serving as head usher for 40 years and dedicated his time to various church activities.

Austin was an avid sportsman who enjoyed golfing, basketball, and baseball.  He even tried out for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1953.  Austin constantly amazed friends and family with his knowledge of sports history.  He loved watching sports, but nothing would get in the way of watching his beloved Denver Broncos.

Austin and Joan loved to travel.  They visited all 50 states, traveled to over 100 countries, and stood on six continents.  Travel highlights included annual Mazatlan, Mexico, vacations and over 25 cruises culminating in a 111 day "Around the World" cruise.  Their biggest joys were experiencing new cultures and unique food and encountering lifelong friends.