Samuel L. "Sam" Cooper

Samuel L. “Sam” Cooper, 83

Samuel L. “Sam” Cooper, 83, of Albion, passed away on January 11, 2026. He lived at Lake Alice in Albion and was born and raised in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania.

Sam retired from General Motors, where he had worked for many years as a general supervisor and was admired for his strong work ethic and dedication. Outside of work, Sam was a true MacGyver-style handyman — there was nothing he couldn’t, or wouldn’t try to, fix. Whether it was a broken appliance, a home repair, or a challenge no one else could solve, Sam always found a way. He took pride in helping others and was happiest when he was building, repairing, or solving a problem.

He loved fishing, hunting, and cheering on the Buffalo Bills, and he treasured the outdoors and time spent with family. Sam’s warmth, humor, and hands-on approach to life left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He was also a proud fur dad to Princess, who brought him great joy and companionship.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Floris and John Cooper; his beloved wife, Sharon Cooper; his son Donny Read; his grandson Luke Truax; his siblings Duane Cooper, Dale Cooper, and Gail Otto; and his nephew Mikie Gaddis.

He is survived by his children: Kim Cooper Truax, Kim (Bryan) Flaherty, Sam (Tracy) Cooper, and Brian (Michelle) Read, and by his daughter-in-law Molly Read.

He was a proud Pappy to: Ryan (Amber Lyn) Flaherty, Jay Hodge, Jessica Hodge, Joelle (Raja Palapu) Truax, Todne (Rob) Csapo, Sean Crowe, Coty Read, Jenna (Chris Merica) Read, Chad Cooper, Derek Cooper, Shelbi Stefaniak, and Russell Flaherty, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Sam also leaves behind the love of extended family, including his surviving siblings — he was one of nine — and several nieces and nephews, who will remember his generosity, humor, and unwavering support.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Carlton Fire Company Recreation Hall, 1853 Oak Orchard Rd, Albion, NY 14411. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Sam’s life. In his honor, guests are encouraged to wear a fishing, hunting, or Buffalo Bills shirt, reflecting the things he loved most.