Richard A. "Coop" Cooper

Richard A. "Coop" Cooper, 80



Local entrepreneur and businessman Richard A. "Coop" Cooper passed away at Schneidmiller Hospice House on Nov. 1, 2025. Coop was born at Sacred Heart Hospital on Feb. 19, 1945, in Spokane.

He attended Wilson grade school and, as an 11-year-old, playing little league for the Comstock Bears, was chosen to catch for Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller. This sparked a lifelong passion for baseball. In 1956, he is credited with founding the Spokane Junior Hockey Association with Tom Mapleson, as documented in the hockey history book "Saturday nights were special." He was a tough, talented player. Coop graduated from Lewis and Clark High School, serving as Student Body President in 1963. After earning a degree in Business and Finance from WSU, he moved to California and began working in the corporate computer industry. Moving back to Spokane, he opened his own computer company, Comtrex, in 1975. A business that ran 24/7, 365 days a year, and employed 125. He expanded, adding a branch in Seattle, producing computer output microfilm for larger companies, government entities, and banks. He served as the Data Processing Management Association President, collaborating nationwide with like-minded business owners. The opportunity to be acquired by the national brand Comstor led Coop to sell Comtrex and the suit-and-tie lifestyle the business required. After finding a building to house his expanding car collection, being too young to retire permanently, Coronado Classics was his next business venture. A classic car and Harley-Davidson sales showroom

Initially starting on Sprague in Spokane, expanding to his beloved Coeur d'Alene on Sherman. It was a popular destination for visitors and locals. It is from that storefront that Car d'Alene began. Rick was a partner in Western Frontiers, the entity that owned (among other properties) the North Shore. It was his small holding that tipped the scales during negotiations in 1983, enabling Hagadone Hospitality to acquire the properties.

He was a mainstay on Lake Coeur d'Alene, commuting to work daily in his 1960 Century Coronado, participating in Old Wood boat shows throughout the region. He was larger than life, someone who lived his dreams. Wintering in Scottsdale, hosting family and friends, going on road rallies, and taking in all that the car season in Arizona has to offer. His generous nature and championing of the "little guy" were legendary-several examples featured in the Coeur d'Alene Press over the years.

He was a huge animal lover and could ski and golf with the best of them. Whether riding Harleys with Evil Knievel or gracing the cover of Classic Boating magazine with his Century Coronado boat collection, he loved Coeur d'Alene and the lifestyle it offered.

In 1979, Coop met the love of his life, Peggy. God's hand was at work when these two met. He was a committed, loving, supportive husband. Together for 46 years, a relationship truly meant to be. He touched the lives of many in his 80 years, leaving a legacy of mentorship and an emotional footprint that won't be forgotten.

Coop was a past member of the Spokane Club, Spokane CC, Manito GCC, Coeur d'Alene Club, Sunrise CC, Rancho Mirage, and all sorts of classic car and antique boat clubs.

Rick is preceded in death by his father, F.B. Cooper, and his mother, Deanne Campbell Cooper. He is survived by his wife, Peggy; his son, Richard Cooper Jr.; his daughter, Ashley Kirkman (both in Boise); and his granddaughter, Ryan Bright (Pullman).

Special thanks to Dr. Bob Hustrulid, caregivers Tina and Shawtie, and longtime friend Dennis Lekander. There will be no service per his request. Companions Animal Center in Hayden was his wish for anyone wishing to donate.

Please know that you were much loved, deeply appreciated, and will be missed dearly. Be with God, your family, friends, and animals. Rest in peace, until we meet again, dear Coops.