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BORN
1947
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Mary Cooper Obituary
Cooper
Captain Mary's final voyage on Teacher's Pet II set sail too early for the Heavens the morning of August 29, 2017.
Mary Lou Cooper, 70, was born on August 8, 1947 passed away peacefully after a brief illness. A lifelong resident of Portage Lakes, Captain Mary loved boating and swimming in the PLX, sharing her pride and knowledge of its local history and lore. She was proud captain of the Teacher's Pet II, taking friends, family, guests and pets on tours to share her love of the Lakes. She was a captain for the Akron Symphony Guild's Lakes Tour Parade of Homes for 20 years.
She graduated with honors from the University of Akron with a degree in Health and Physical Education. Mary loved her 42-year teaching career with Akron Public Schools, primarily at North and Garfield High Schools, and the Summit County Juvenile Detention Facility.
Mary was a trailblazer in women's sports, as a player, coach and referee. Her proudest moments were with her successful and dedicated North volleyball and softball teams. She also coached golf, basketball and tennis. She was inducted into the Summit County Softball Hall of Fame in 2014 as an athlete and umpire. This summer, she proudly donated her softball glove to the Akron Racers.
A loving and caring friend to animals, Mary donated hundreds of hours to local pet rescue organizations, while fostering and sitting numerous dogs and cats in her home. She volunteered with Northern Ohio Golf Charities, assisting with special needs guest transportation for the Bridgestone Invitational.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents Robert Cooper and Margaret Caplinger. She is survived by her life-partner, Alberta Veri and their furry companions; sisters, Joanne (Jan) Harbort and Susan Harris; nephews, Tom Maudru and David Harris; niece, Beth (Tim) Queen as well as many friends, former students and co-workers throughout the country.
Funeral service will be held at 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 31, 2017 at Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd., (SR619), Akron, Ohio 44319. Family and friends may call on Thursday, from 3 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's name to The Humane Society of Summit County, 7996 Darrow Road., Twinsburg, Ohio 44087 or to the Portage Lakes Fireworks Association (PLFA), P.O. Box 26923, Akron, Ohio 44319.
To leave a special message online for the family, visit our website at www.schermesserfh.com.
SCHERMESSER
(330) 899-9107 www.schermesserfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Cooper
Sponsored by Akron Beacon Journal.
Vanessa Pugh
September 1, 2017
Evidence of a life well lived! What a huge impact Miss Cooper had on thousands of students. I had her at Jennings as a gym teacher and remember her fondly. Even when I was young I knew of the NHS volleyball reputation and I couldn't wait to be a Lady Viking one day. The world will miss a beautiful soul like Miss Cooper. Rest In Peace
Vanessa Pugh (Matz) - NHS class of 1997
September 1, 2017
What a beautiful soul. Every time she came into the doctor's office she came with her awesome sarcasm and contagious laughter. I enjoyed her presence every time. You will be missed.
Karen Pateos
September 1, 2017
So sorry to hear about Coach Coop. I have fond memories of playing against her North High softball teams, and then working with her at Garfield. May she rest in peace.
Lynn Asente
August 31, 2017
What a pleasure it was working with Mary at Garfield High School. She was a natural born teacher and contributed so much to the lives of the students and teams. Many fond memories of Garfield parties on the lake, and I was so happy that I did get to go on the pontoon ride for the symphony with Mary at its helm. What a joy and so funny too. Also, we were so lucky that she recently started attending Civic Theatre events. It was great to catch up with her. She will truly be missed by so many.
Lisa Leonino
August 31, 2017
Rest in peace Coach Cooper. So proud to be a member of three North High City Series Volleyball Championship teams. Those were my most memorable times of high school. You taught me how to work hard to excel at the game, and to be a hungry and coachable player. Those lessons I have instilled in my own daughters and players while coaching volleyball. Thanks for all the great memories and teaching me to love the sport of volleyball.
So sad to hear of Coach's passing. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Lisa Kozar-Leonino
North High Class of 89
Rosemary Hickin
August 31, 2017
Alberta and family.
May you find comfort knowing that you and your loved ones are thought of in prayer during this time.
with deepest sympathy, Rosie (Bridgestone Volunteer)
August 31, 2017
Sorry to hear about Mary Lou, she was a Kenmore High School classmate. I didn't know her personally but she sure was someone special. The Kenmore class of "65" has a memorial fund set up to give the family or persons close to her a card and a check to be used in whatever fashion they choose. I need an address to send it to,my name Ron Sferro and I handle the the details, so if someone could give me that information I would appreciate it. My number is 330-858-2731 RIP Mary Lou
Tammy King-Musser
August 31, 2017
So sad to hear, she was such a nice lady. She was my gym teacher at NH, she would let me volunteer to help in the gym during my study halls.
Coral (Russell) Lewis
August 31, 2017
So sorry for the loss of coach cooper.
Just knew her from school, but was a very nice lady.
My condolences on your loss.
Jeff & Debbie Hatch
August 31, 2017
My sweet cousin Mary, I had always hoped to play a round of golf with you but that wish goes unfulfilled. You were the athlete in the family and all who knew you were proud of all your accomplishments. Debbie and I had the pleasure of experiencing a marvelous pontoon cruise with you and Alberta two summers ago as well as a dockside lunch. Your special laughter will be heard over The Portage Lakes for eternity. Stop and listen!!
August 30, 2017
My sincere condolences to your family. May God's promise comfort and sustain you during this difficult time. John 6:40.
Your wonderful heart!
Terri Angelo
August 30, 2017
Your heart was pure warmth and love. You were/are a gentle soul. You were my friend and i am so glad we shared quality time/life together. You always made me smile. I was comforted by your caring. I know you are at peace in a place where eternal happiness reigns supreme. But...I will always miss you. You are a good part of me. I will look forward to seeing again and getting that hug! I hope there is water in heaven and that you can float around forever ☺ Love you!
Mary George
August 30, 2017
Berta, may the peace that comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead. Thoughts and prayers for you are in our hearts. Mary Beth and Aunt Madaline
Pam Wilson
August 30, 2017
Mary,
I'll always remember that look you gave me right before you hit the ball over my head in left field, and it happened more than once.
I'll miss that smile, laugh and many kindnesses.
Godspeed, Mary - gonna miss you
Carol K
August 30, 2017
So sad to hear of Mary's untimely passing.
I am heartbroken. I did have the good fortune of a boat ride with Captain Mary, etal. I will always remember Mary's smile and her laughter. xo
August 30, 2017
So sad to hear of Mary's untimely passing.
I am heartbroken. I did have the good fortune of a boat ride with Captain Mary, etal. I will always remember Mary's smile and her laughter. xo
Anna Maria Baumann (Fortunato)
August 30, 2017
Dear Berta, I am so very sorry for the loss of your Sweet Mary.
Tami Breitenstine
August 30, 2017
Mary you will be missed. I love when you came in Belgrades, you always put a smile on my face.
Im so sorry for you loss. Mary had a great family that came with her all the time.
Patti pilato
August 30, 2017
Mary you will be missed. Such a great friend of my sister Terri, she was so kind always loved her boat and taking people out on it. Got to know her, she will be missed but not forgotten.
Kelly Watson
August 30, 2017
Mary was a an asset to society. Her caring personality and willingness to volunteer will be greatly missed. Alberta, keep in mind how lucky you were to have her in your life. Unfortunately that's what makes it so hard to let her go. May the good memories ease your pain and her family's pain during these difficult days. Hugs!
Diane Fields
August 30, 2017
Mary, Thanks for all the memories and laughs. You had a heart of gold. Alberta, all my love and support during this difficult time of loss for you. Mary was so fortunate to have you as a part of her life.
Showing 1 - 22 of 22 results
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Aug
31
Calling hours
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Schermesser Eberhardt Funeral Home600 East Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, OH 44319
Aug
31
Funeral service
5:00 p.m.
Schermesser Eberhardt Funeral Home600 East Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, OH 44319
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Schermesser Eberhardt Funeral Home600 East Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, OH 44319
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