He was born on June 10, 1995 in Olathe, Kansas and grew up in Overland Park attending Overland Trail Elementary & Overland Trail Middle schools. He graduated in 2013 from Blue Valley North High School.
Nick will always be remembered by his smile! He was Caring, Fun-Loving, Kind, Generous, Thoughtful, Respectful and Loyal! The love and protection he had for Libby and Davis was unwavering, as he was the ultimate Big Brother! He loved life, was a true friend, and loved his family, we couldn’t be more proud of the man he had become! Nick battled for 12 days in the ICU at Overland Park Medical Center where he was surrounded by his family and friends. We know Nick felt the love, hope and prayers but sadly his body couldn’t take the pain any longer and he left this world too soon. But, he will live on as he was an organ donor and knowing his wishes were granted makes us PROUD!
As a young boy, Nick enjoyed playing all sports especially basketball, baseball, flag football and golf. Once he started high school he focused on golf and was a member of the BVN Mustangs golf team, and the KJGA where he played in many tournaments. He enjoyed his rec basketball team – “The Mavs” along with his longtime friends. He also enjoyed broadcast and the CAPS multimedia journalism program. He videotaped the Mustangs varsity football games and occasionally did play by play. These were some of his greatest memories from high school.
Nick grew up being passionate about sports and always dreamed one day to have a job doing something for one of the many sports he followed. He loved Fantasy Football and included his family and friends in it. His number one team and passion were the KC Chiefs. He attended training camps, pre-season games and rarely missed a game at Arrowhead, regardless of the weather conditions. He remained the eternal optimist and each year he would be heard saying “this is our year!”
In the fall of 2013, he attended the University of Kansas and was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity. During this time, he made some long lasting friendships and he always said that was the best part of college.
In December 2014, Nick said goodbye to KU and he came home to start the next chapter of his life. He worked at Golf Galaxy and became an intern at the Digital Ally Open-Web.com tour. After his summer internship, with D.A. he was promoted to their social media director. In the spring of 2015, his good friend purchased Berrie Kabobs to sell at the KC Royals baseball games. Nick was offered a full time position as manager. This wonderful opportunity allowed him to work for a small business from the ground up. He was able to travel to work in Arizona for Royals Spring Training, Omaha for the College World Series and most memorable was to be a part of the Kansas City Royals World Series Championship. He often said that was the best 30 days of his life.
Last summer, Nick was excited to get his own apartment downtown. His walls were filled with sports memorabilia and his apartment was rarely empty as he loved hosting his friends.
He continued his passion for golf and earlier this month played in the Kansas Amateur- a goal he always had for himself. Nick will be missed by all who knew him. We hope his short life on this earth will inspire you in some way.
Nick is preceded in death by his great grandparents Ralph and Millie Cooper and Alva Priess; his grandpa Jim Cooper and Papa Dick Wills. He is survived by his parents Brent and Marty, sister Libby and brother Davis all of the home. His grandma Sheila Cooper of Kansas City, Missouri and Granny, Betty Wills of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, god parents and loving friends.
Our family would like to thank the amazing nurses in the ICU at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
A Visitation will take place from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, Friday, August 10th at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri. A Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00am, Saturday, August 11th at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 14251 Nall Avenue, Leawood, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www.gofundme.com/coop039s-story
Proceeds received will be used to help less fortunate enjoy some of the passions and interests that were a part of Nick’s life.
