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Barbara Mercaldo Cooper

Barbara Cooper Obituary

Barbara Mercaldo Cooper Born October 19, 1945 passed away after a tragic car accident on November 4, 2005. She died peacefully surrounded by her loving husband, Richard Cooper; sons, Marco Mercaldo (Beth) and Carlo Mercaldo; daughter, Morgan Deisner (Jeff); and sister, Suzie Coyle (Tim); and nephews, Chris and Kevin Coyle. Barbara is survived by her very special grandchildren, Madeline Rose and Luke Patrick and many loving family and friends. She was born in Worcester, MA and grew up in Sacramento, CA. A resident of Tucson for the past 41 years, she was a born educator and shared that gift through her work as a teacher and counselor for over thirty years in the Tucson Unified School District. She retired in 2004 after having shared her love and compassion with thousands of students. Following her retirement from TUSD she was instrumental in securing the charter for Tucson Country Day School, and much of its success has been attributed to her expertise and experience. Barbara will be remembered most for her love of family, her girlfriends, family gatherings, and the warmth of sunshine upon her beautiful smiling face. She is preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Lou Alpert. Our lives will never be the same without her, but she will live on in our hearts forever. Barbara will be remembered always for her generosity, compassion, and quiet strength. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Barbara's life on December 10, 2005 at an open house from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., 8965 East 5th Street. In lieu of flowers, please take a friend out to lunch and share a memory about Barbara. We love you, Grammie!

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Nov. 10, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Cooper

33 Entries

Kathleen Spence

June 11, 2006

Dear Marco, Morgan and Carlos,

I'm sorry this condolence comes so late. We only learned of your mother's death today when Mariette researched her because we had been reminising about her. Such a loss.

She was a lovely person whom we remember with warmest affection and happy reflection.

One of her favorite songs fit her so well "I am the queen of hearts". It would be top volumn as she'd fly along in the wagoneer. Happy times together!

We shall always remember her this way.

Kathleen Spence,

Colin and Mariette

Adam Meister

November 19, 2005

Barbara was one of the sweetest people I knew. From the days when she regularly invited our group of rambunctious adolescents into her home in Flecha Caida to Marco and Beth's recent wedding when she reached out to get to know my wife, Sarah, and our children, Madeline and Lee, she always exuded warmth and generosity. We extend our deepest sympathies to the whole family and join you in mourning over this immense loss.

Lupita Martinez

November 16, 2005

Dear Marco, Morgan and Carlo,

I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was a wonderful human being and such a nice lady. So much fun and so kind and gentle. I met her so many years ago. Marco you were just a baby and my aunt Olga was taking care of you during your Mom's workday when we met. I remember all of you being a happy part of our family. You were at all of our celebrations and we really enjoyed her and you. I remember when my aunt Ycha, who did not speak English, would sit and visit with your mom, they had a great time. Your mom was truly an "Exceptional Woman." She made everyone, regardless of age or color, feel happy and calm and part of whatever was going on. She will be dearly missed by you and all the people she touched. I am sure that she is in a better place and that she is entertaining my son, Carlitos.

With much love,

Lupita & Carlos Martinez

Brian OConnell

November 15, 2005

Dear Carlo, Marco and Morgan:

Im so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. Your mom was a wonderful friend to my mom and our entire family. She truly cared about all of us and we will never forget her. We (Brian, Sara, Terri, Susie) send our thoughts and prayers, and please let us know if we can help in any way.

Sincerely,

Brian O'Connell & Family

The Jeff Saffer Family

November 15, 2005

Dear Marco, Morgan and Carlo,

We were so very lucky to know your wonderful mother. She was truly such a proud mother and grandmother, and such a dear friend to her many, many girlfriends. Our thoughts and prayers have been with you and will continue to be during this time. Your mother's incredible smile will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Myriam Oviedo-Kelly

November 14, 2005

Marco, Morgan, and Carlo, I am so sorry to hear that your mom has passed away. I have very happy memories of her and you when you were little. Your mom was the best teacher and a beautiful person, especially inside. I remember on my first day of Headstart, I cried because my mom was leaving me after walking me to school. Your mom took me in her arms and rocked me in the rocking chair. Luckily, I got to tell her this story at my wedding shower three years ago and told her what a wonderful teacher she was. She, very modestly, said, "No, Myriam, not me." and laughed. I will miss her very much. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

Beverly & Andrew Vasquez

November 13, 2005

Barbara has left her legacy of kindness with all of those she touched. Her caring ways and thoughtfulness are sweet memories to hold onto. She cared for everyone and her unique ways of bonding with students made them fell so important. Whenever Andrew returned to visit at Collier, Barbara always took the time to spend a few moments with him. She would be so proud to know how he has matured into a caring and giving person. We will miss you. Thank you for all you have given to each and everyone of us. Our sympathies are extended to her family. God Bless you.

Geri Hall

November 12, 2005

Thanks for being my friend for the few short years as a Red Hat sister. You made life fun, exciting and enjoyable. I will miss you and think of you and your wonderful smile often. To the family I extend my sincere sympathies at this time, may you remember her for all her wonderful qualities.

Linda Dick

November 12, 2005

Marco and family, We were so sorry to hear about your loss. Barbara was a lovely lady and will be missed by everyone who knew her. We have fond memories of the friendship you and Matt shared during your school years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Love, Linda and Gamble Dick

Vivian Vecchiarelli

November 12, 2005

Dear Lady Barbara, 2 1/2 years ago you joined our Red Hat Chapter, the "Cactus Cutes". At that time you mention you had been single a very long time and now was engaged to be married. We were so excited to hear the news, we planned a surprise "Wedding Shower". At that time you had been a member for 2 months. We bonded with you as a group on that very day. We all enjoyed your stories of your many travels and happy experience's, and lets not forget your many funky Red Hats and caps, you had style. Your Red Hat Sister's will never forget you. If there is a "Red Hat Chapter" in heaven,save us a spot near you.

In Red and Purple, Queen Vivian, Vice Queen Geri, Lady Di, Lady Linda, Lady Heidi, Lady Nina, Lady Marcia, Lady Patti, Lady Ruth, Lady Karla, Lady Purdence, Lady Jinny, Lady Marilyn, Lady Diana, Princess Yvette

Diane Powell

November 12, 2005

Lady Barbara. I met you in our Red Hat chapter several years ago and I will always remember our fun times, laughter, and chats. I miss you but will always remember you and your beautiful smile. My thoughts are with you, Richard, and the family.

Linda Kraus

November 11, 2005

Barbara, you were a beautiful, sassy Red Hat sister and I'm so very thankful for the opportunity I had to get to know you. Your time here was too short but the impact you made on everyone lucky enough to know you was immense. My heartfelt sympathies to Richard and the rest of your family.

Red Hat Sister's Having Fun

November 11, 2005

Susan & Rip Harris

November 11, 2005

We are heartbroken for your loss. You were so blessed to have such a great MOM. You know you always have a place in Carlsbad to come and get a big hug.

Jamie Harris

November 11, 2005

Barbara along with Phyliss Sosnow were my first friends when I moved to Tucson many years ago. Then I met Mary Gerrow and just as she was with me she welcomed Mary with open arms into the fold. The girlfriend circle grew and expanded with existing friends and new friends. It was and still is some of my best memories. I will miss Barbara even though I hadn't seen her for a while, I have kept in touch through Mary, Phyliss and Susan. I remember sharing tears and laughs with Barbara and will always remember her warm smile, and how she handled every situation with class and dignity.

I feel blessed and honored to have known her and to have been thought of as one of her friends.

To Suzy, Morgan,Carlo,Marco and her precious grandchildren, thank you for sharing such a wonderful women with us. My prayers are with you all.

Debbie Earls

November 11, 2005

Dear Richard and Family, I am saddened to learn of your accident and loss. VERY BEAUTIFUL tribute to Barbara in the news.

Love, "Beach"

Matt Dick

November 11, 2005

Speaking on behalf of my family, our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Marco was one of my closest friends during high school and Barbara was always like a second Mom to me. She raised three amazing children of her own, and can say she played an important role in the development of thousands of others. Her smile will not be forgotten!

Arabella La Chance

November 11, 2005

Barbara was my very first teacher at Menlo Park. She was kind, beautiful and the best with children. I always wanted to be just like her. I became a school teacher because of her. My favorite memories of her are when we would all get together for a wedding shower ( she gave me a great one when I got married ) a wedding or a baby shower. I would always tell her that she inspired me to become a teacher and she would get this beautiful smile and say to me " Oh Arbell". When my son was born she gave him this huge pink pig which he named Lupita, she was and still is, 14 years later, his favorite friend.Lastly I remember when Morgan got married she was so happy and she wore a beautiful silver dress she looked lovely.My thoughts and prayer are with all of you at this very difficult time. My family is very fortunate to have you Marco, Morgan and Carlo in our lives. We have great pictures and memories.

Love,

Arabella

jeff perkins

November 11, 2005

To the entire Cooper family:

My thoughts and prayers are with ALL

of you at this so demanding and emotional time. Truly so sorry to hear of this tragic situation. Jeff Perkins

Michael Nakahira

November 11, 2005

This wonderful lady came into my life after the passing of her beloved parents. I did not have as much time to know her. It only took one breakfast and phone calls to be "won" over. Her positive energy is her true legacy. I always recognized her voice. She now continues to live in our hearts forever. As friends and family we were blessed to have her in our lives. With kind regards, Michael

Wayne ,Tara, Trey and Christian Floyd

November 10, 2005

We were so heartbroken to hear of Barbara's passing. I remember vividly her smiling face whenever she came into the office at TCDS. She always had kind words of encouragement and loved to share a laugh with us.

We will miss her deeply.

We are so very sorry.

Lisa Hartman

November 10, 2005

Barbara was an amazing mother and grandmother. She was so vivacious and fun to be around. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to know her. She has amazing, successful, and beautiful children which is an attestment to her positive parenting. You will be missed but we will see you again.

Love the Hartman's

[email protected] Hennings

November 10, 2005

Hi to the family..my daughter Alli married Graham Swanson...so i have met Carlo many times and had so many opportunites to hear about all of their memories...........i met Barbara briefly at 58 Degrees in passing....i just knew she was someone i would want to get to know....all of our love and sympathy Love , Dana and Bill

Georgia Brousseau

November 10, 2005

I knew Barbara in TUSD in a variety of ways. She was a wonderful, caring, gifted educator and counselor. She will be missed, especially going so tragically and unexpectedly. My sympathy and prayers for her family are given with caring.

Vicki Richardson

November 10, 2005

We are shocked to hear of your loss. I can remember meeting your lovely mom for the first time at the A-Phi Pledge lunch. I will always remember her. We are thinking of you. Vicki & Wes Richardson

Jesse Young

November 10, 2005

On behalf of my family, our hearts go out to you and the incredible family you raised (Marco, Morgan, and Carlo). We feel honored to have known such a wonderful and endearing person/mother, and to have been a part of your family's lives. Our thoughts are with you all.

Alice Deisner

November 10, 2005

I am so proud to be Madeline and Luke's other grandma. I will always love them and protect them. I will never let them forget their Grammie. My deepest sympathy goes out to Richard,Marco and Beth,Morgan and Jeff,Madeline and Luke and Carlo. The entire Deisner family loves you all. You are all in our thoughts and prayers, Alice

Dynah Oviedo-Lim

November 10, 2005

I can still remember when you dropped Marco off with my mom (Olga). I was so excited to have a younger playmate. What I could have never imagined at the time was what a huge part of my life you would all become. Thank you for giving me the best baby shower ever!Marco, Morgan and Carlo my deepest heartfelt condolences go out to you all. My mom sends her condolences as well. We love you all very much! -Dynah

erin lee

November 10, 2005

Barbara was a fellow teacher. She was kind and her sense of humor allowed me (a newbie at the time) to take a step back and appreciate my efforts. Thank you, Model Teacher! I have been passoing on your knowledge to all.........Erin

Kris Emrich

November 10, 2005

Thanks for your love of children and your compassion for them as well. You were a true friend and will be missed very much!

Denise Balunda

November 10, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family in this terrible time. Find comfort in your memories and your family. She was a wonderful person and a tribute to all of you.

Denise, Bob, Bruce and Darcie Balunda

Suzie Coyle

November 10, 2005

To my very special sister and number one fan. I will love you forever and cherish every moment we shared together. I want to see you dance again and see your beautiful smiling face and blue eyes. I love you. #2

Amy Bjelland

November 10, 2005

Barbara you are so special to me. I remember my days in kindergarten with you as my teacher - and my favorite days when you would bring Morgan in! You have been such a vibrant, important part of my life, and my family's life. I will miss seeing your smiling face every Christmas. For Morgan, Marco and Carlo, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Richard, I know that Barbara loved you very much and you are also in my thoughts and prayers. Much love, Amy

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