Obituary of Alexander David Cooper

Dad, one of 6 sons, was born in Summerside PEI to Philip and Zelie Arsenault. Though his youngest brother, Philip, died as a young child, with the rest of his brothers, Ernest, Dona, John, and Edward they were hardworking boys. Also a musician, Dad entertained at dances and community events as a young man. The music of Hank Snow influenced Dad's personal style so much so that once he was asked to fill in for Hank on a radio show in Montreal; no one listening knew the difference. Dad charmed Mom (Margaret (Depeel) with his singing, stories, and zest for life and they were married in 1952. Mom passed away in 1996. All of us kids, Linda, Wayne, Liela, Laura, and Alexandria were raised with Dad's appreciation for music and enjoyed many opportunities to perform as a family in church and around the community. He would astound and delight us and his and friends with his skill at yodeling, especially around the campfire. Dad had great pride and joy in his grandchildren; Melanie, Laura, Jesse, and Rachel, his step-grandchildren; Zebulon and Lucas, and his great grandchildren; Eric, Caitlin, Ryan and Connor. His daughter and sons in law, Peter, Lynn, James, and Bucky each added dimensions to the richness of Dad's life. For 35 years Dad was a great enthusiast and fan of the Kimberley Pipe Band. He enjoyed many sing along band parties and events. Robbie Burns nights were especially memorable for him. Fishing was always a large part of Dad's life and in his later years many dear friendships were born of the yearly spring pilgrimage to Premier Lake. Dad loved these trips, and his friends, and we want to thank Bucky for making this possible for him. Dad is survived by his faithful and spoiled dog, Tramp, and the many fish he never caught. Cecile Bolduc was Dad's partner in his later years. Near the end of her life, Dad cared for her with great kindness, affection and tenderness. It was these same characteristics that endeared Dad to many who came in contact with him. Among these were his "special girls", Bonnie, Gerri, Margo, and Sharon, who held a dear place in his heart. He affectionately called these women his daughters.In the months preceding his cancer diagnosis, Dad endured excruciating and uncontrolled pain. In watching him pace the floor night after night, we realized his incredible strength. Throughout the two months of his hospitalization, we have found great solace in the stories his care providers at the EKRH and the Pines have shared with us about Dad's sense of humor, his sweetness, and his gratitude for all they did for him, regardless of whether or not it hurt. Dad took great pride in the diversity of each of his children?s accomplishments. Though our father taught us many lessons, the greatest of these were our understanding of hard work and the importance of forgiveness. The man that he was will resonate with all who knew him long after he is gone. Dad has requested that there be no service so the next time you are at Premier Lake drop a line on Dad's behalf. Donations in celebration of Alex's life can be made to the Kimberley Special Care Home "The Pines".We, his children, will be having an Open House to celebrate Dad's life on Sunday October 7th 2007 from 1-4pm at the home of Laura Cooper at 276-306th Avenue, Marysville. Please join us.