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Kenneth Cooper Obituary
December 26, 1953 - March 30, 2020
Kenny unexpectedly passed away on Monday, March 30, 2020. He became acutely ill and succumbed to systemic complications unrelated to COVID-19. He was surrounded by his immediate family.Our hearts are saddened and we now "look up" and remember his big, infectious personality and embrace.
Born and raised in San Francisco, he later moved to Marin Country to raise his family. He is preceded in death by his parents Mickey and Rose Cooper and sister Dena.
Ken is survived by his wife Kathy of 42 years, two children Courtney (Erik) and Kyle (Natasha) 3 grandchildren, Oliva, Reed and Lucy who were his everything.
Ken enjoyed his large extended family, that included siblings, Michael, Edward, Dena, Mitchell, and their children and grandchildren; his aunts, uncles, cousins and a large community of friends both personally and professionally.
If you knew him you would agree that he loved hard.
He will be remembered for his infectious smile, sense of humor, late night DJ dance parties and generous heart for everyone. We will all miss his "BIG" hugs.
Ken attended Sacred Heart Cathedral High School in San Francisco. He followed in his father's basketball prowess which lead his 1972 Varsity basketball team to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Ken's love for basketball then turned from player to coach, mentoring many children and teenagers.
After graduating High School, he attended San Diego State College and San Francisco State University. He was introduced to contracting trades through his father and uncles.
He was proud of his business, Ken Cooper Roofing and Gutter Systems that he nurtured nearly 45 years. He found deep satisfaction in serving his customers and developing trusting professional relationships, alongside his son, Kyle Cooper, who will carry on his legacy.
A Celebration of Life for Kenny will be held in the future. Donations in his memory can be made to The Salesian Boys and Girls Club of San Francisco, Salesianclub.org and go to the link titled memorial and honor giving, thank you.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Cooper
Cary Daniel Yurk
February 22, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of Ken’s passing, dear Kathy. You had many wonderful years with a great guy who loved you and your children dearly. I trust you will find peace and consolation in your loss. God be with you all! ❤
Alan Hyman
June 25, 2020
I'm shocked, I haven't seen Kenny lately but over the years I'd see him hear and there. Last time I saw him was next door to my pawnshop many years ago. He was doing a roof and seeing him we just picked up where we left off....just a warm and caring guy. Sadden to hear the news. Love cousin Alan Hyman (Alchickle as Uncle Micky called me)
Chris Lavdiotis
June 21, 2020
I loved Kenny. What a great guy. We played A LOT of ball at Sunset Playground. Nothing but wonderful memories. I am so sorry to hear of his passing and express my prayers to his family. May his memory be eternal.
Chris Lavdiotis
Rick Drocco
June 19, 2020
Kenny and I grew up together in the Sunset. We played ball together for many years.
He was a wonderful person. I will miss him immensely. Rest In Peace my brother. ♥
Tricia Anthony
April 20, 2020
I will miss those giant hugs
and I will miss your kind smile,
which shone in your eyes.
Ken Cooper,
I WILL MISS YOU!♥
Rest easy ~ keep swimming.
Love,
Tricia (LoCoco's)
April 7, 2020
Condolences to the Cooper family. Ken was a shining light everywhere he went. He filled the room with joy and had such an ease relating with others. We truly enjoyed hearing his laughter and having him in the studio every Friday morning.
May this angel rest in peace.
From the StretchLab Mill Valley Family
Barry Frey
April 7, 2020
I'm really saddened from this bad news. All my best and sincere sympathies to Kyle and the Cooper family. I enjoyed working with Ken very much. He was a fair man and had a great presence. I will miss him.
Barry Frey
Juan Garcia
April 6, 2020
Cooper - Gumina Families
Please accept our sincere condolences. We are so very sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. May God's Eternal Light shine upon Ken!
The Garcia Family
Rachel, Natalia, Lorenzo & Juan
Herb Anderson
April 6, 2020
Sorry to hear of the passing of Kenny. My father owned a sheet metal shop in SF. He loved interacting with him. You can't forget that smile.
April 4, 2020
Kathy....Kyle....Couurtney...i am so so sorry for ur loss...i am in shock...Ken was such an amazing man and my memories of him were filled with fun times and his amazing love for his family....i am keeping u in my prayers and thoughts during this difficult time...GEORGE AND LINDA PHERAROLIS
April 4, 2020
Wow, doesn't seem right..the TL/Marinwood community lost a big bright light...just ran into you and Kyle a couple weeks ago, as always a big smile and connected greeting...LOVE to the family, a great reminder to call family and friends often. RIP
Doug Acton
Russell
April 3, 2020
A talented basketball player! I was on the team in the 8th grade with him! I remember after all those years running into him in New Orleans when the 49ers played Denver in the Super Bowl! So sorry for this news!
Glen Hubbard
April 3, 2020
Cooper, love you and your family! We have had many great times together! Hard to believe you have left us! Kathy, my heart goes out to you and your family! Love always! Coop, get the courts ready in heaven! Ken Cooper is one of the magnificent 5 that lead sacred heart basketball team to a 1972 championship!
Dave Mahoney
April 3, 2020
So very sorry to hear this terrible news . Coop was one of the most generous people that Ive known. The epitome of a Family Man. My coaching Kyle at TL Lacross with Ken on the sidelines was lots of fun , especially after knowing Coop since 75 and seeing what a loving parent he had become. I kick myself for not connecting with him recently. Life is precious . All the best to the Cooper Family.
April 3, 2020
To the Family of COOP: so very sorry for your loss! Just one BIG TEDDY BEAR of a guy. Spent lots of time with Ken and his family...and it was always a blast. My mind spins with many fantastic trips to the NCAA Mens Basketball Tournaments over the years with Coop and the Boys. Feel like he lived life to the fullest. Until we meet again....your point guard for life!!! Pat Dugan and Family
April 3, 2020
Our heartfelt condolences for the Cooper family from Stephen, Teri, Krisi and Kellie Foltz. We have many fond memories of Kenny and the Terra Linda Orcas and know Kenny will be missed dearly by his family and friends.
Frank
April 2, 2020
Just saw Kenny a couple weeks ago on 101 - huge smile and wave. You always felt good talking and seeing Kenny. RIP. KC
Bill Isola
April 2, 2020
My sincere and deepest condolences to the entire Cooper family. Lots of fond memories of playing basketball with Kenny at Sunset playground. RIP Brother. Bill Isola
Mike and Lisa Boland
April 2, 2020
Our hearts are broken over the loss of Kenny. His infectious smile and spirit of love were unique. Playing basketball with him created many memories of his child-like joy. We are sending our sincere condolences to the Cooper Family.
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