Irving Cooper

Cooper, Irving
Passed away on March 3, 2002 following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 81. Now only we feel his pain. He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched, even but for a moment. Irv is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Helga and was the beloved father of Richard Cooper (Lois) and grandfather of Andrew, Eric and Amy; father of Suzie Rothman (Rob) and grandfather of Joshua and Rebecca; father of Robyn Pomerantz (Bruce) and grandfather of Alyana and Jonah. He was a true "man of the world" and loved to travel, learn and explore. Never fearing to take on a challenge or hesitating to help others in need. His contributions and personal involvements resulted in advancing research in heart disease, cancer and aging. It was his hope that his efforts would bring health and happiness to his grandchildren and to all the grandchildren of the world. Throughout his life, Irv was ever curious about technology and was behind the scenes in many technological advances that today are commonplace. The consummate businessman, he had a sixth sense to unearth a good deal or to know when to "cut his losses", long before the so-called experts. He used his successes to help others in need, often helping unknown people just because. He served his country in the Pacific Theater during WWII, surviving kamikaze attacks on his aircraft carrier (USS Hancock) and forged life-long brotherhoods with lost shipmates to whom he has now returned. Although quiet about his duty to his country, he was very proud of his distinguished service and chronicled his youth at sea in recent years. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday at Mount Sinai at noon. Contributions may be made to The UCLA Center for Aging.