Jake was born on August 6, 1950, in Burlington, Colorado, to Jake II and Katherine Cooper (Dellario). Jake graduated from Raytown South High School and briefly attended Longview Community College. At age 23 an opportunity arose to purchase a truckload of pipe from his father’s friend, and Jake’s entrepreneurial spirit kicked in. He started Industrial Sales Company in 1973 where he served as Owner/President for over 50 years before Winsupply Inc. acquired the company, and he remained President until his passing. Throughout his many business years, Jake gave friends, family, and associates opportunities to grow with him in the landscape and utility industries.
Jake met his wife Rebecca (Hughes) through Industrial Sales, and they married in 2001. The couple enjoyed 25 special years together before his passing. They were blessed with two sons: Jake J. Cooper IV and Jason J. Cooper.
Jake was an individual who loved his family greatly and his most special moments were taking vacations and spending time with his wife and two sons. He also loved animals and rescued all sorts of God’s creatures in need, such as stray cats, turtles, pigeons, and many more. His hobbies were collecting things like pocket knives, fixing things around the house, being in nature, listening to music, and watching The History Channel and football.
Jake was preceded in death by his parents Jake II and Katherine Cooper (Dellario); and his sister, Jacquelin (Cooper) Robertson.
He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Cooper (Hughes); his two children, Jake IV and Jason Cooper of Bucyrus, KS; his three siblings, Sondra Nelson of Denver, CO, Charles J. Cooper (Connie) of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Jolynn Johanning (Robert) of Olathe, KS; and many nieces and nephews.
Jake was, by every measure, an amazing man whose life was defined by the many lives he touched. His memory will endure in the hearts of his family, his friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to these two charities: www.garysinisefoundation.org and www.defenders.org
A Celebration of Life will be held later this year. More details to follow. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the family on this site...
