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John COOLER Obituary
John "Jack" Cooler
SPRINGFIELD, IL - John "Jack" Cooler died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014, at his home.
He was born June 15, 1934, to John M. and Gladys Cooler in Morrisonville, Ill. He was a member of the U.S. Naval Reserves for 12 years and the American Legion Post #32. He married Mary Alice Geibel on Aug. 15, 1959.
He is survived by his wife; two daughters, Alice (husband, John Tadla) Cooler and Joelyn (husband, Mark) Taylor; and three grandchildren: John, Brett and Ryan Taylor.
He taught in the biological sciences for 38 years at Springfield High School and was a member of St. Joseph Parish in Springfield.
Cremation was accorded by Lincoln Land Cremation Society. A private funeral mass was conducted by Rev. Steven Janoski with a private burial at Calvary Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John COOLER
Sponsored by His Family.
Jay Jones
August 11, 2021
This is added about 7 years after John Cooler's passing (2021). He was one of a few fabulous teachers who changed my life. I had Mr. Cooler for Botany as a Sophomore. He fanned a pre-existing interest and launched a career teaching in the biology and biochemistry. Proud to be a botanist, sensu lato, in part because of the inspiration of Mr. Cooler. Sorry I could not express the gratitude directly. I just retired after nearly 40 years of university teaching. I will continue to carry John's memory with me. I hope that I have inspired a few students to the degree Mr. Cooler inspired me.
August 31, 2014
Jack Cooler was my Biology, Botany and Zoology instructor. He was easily my favorite teacher and the reason why I am a college biology professor. He had a way of inspiring students to do their best and enjoy what they are learning.
He was very funny and had key phrases that still stick with me 30 years later! I remember he told my parents I had "bull-dog tenacity" and that I was feisty. He would tell boys that were messing around that they were acting like monkeys on motorcycles. I remember delivering hot coffee to him and his buddies (like Mr. John Staats) during the teacher's strike of 1983.
Mr. Cooler was an inspiration and a blessing to all his students and he will be missed. My sympathies for your tremendous loss; may God bless you and help you heal.
Erica (Schoedel) Sharar
SHS Class of 1984
2322 French Street
Santa Ana, California
714 280 3086
Virgil Howarth
January 30, 2014
Jack was my neighbor across the street when I lived on State St. Although he was four years older than I in 1955, we still hung out together.
I know of no finer person than Jack. Always looking on the bright side and happy go lucky.
He had a great life. Married his hometown sweetheart, had a great marriage, had a great teaching career, and most important, he and Mary Alice gave us two great daughters. No man could ask for more.
Springfield will miss Jack.
Will Howarth
January 30, 2014
Jack Cooler was a neighbor to the Howarth family on South State Street. He was a generous "big brother" to the younger kids and a friend of the older ones. Rest in peace, dear Jack, fondly remembered by family, friends, and students.
A photo of him with his SHS science colleagues appears at
http://www.shs-58.org/capitoline/physical.html
Cheryl Stogdell
January 23, 2014
If all teachers were like Mr. Cooler, then our education system would be unsurpassed. I, for one, am proud to be among his previous students. His dedication and determination in providing the best education is quite a testimonial. Jack Cooler will truly be missed by all those that knew him. Rest in peace.
Sharon Bell
January 22, 2014
Mary Alice, Alice & Joellyn: I'm so sorry to learn of your loss. What wonderful neighbor he was to my parents and to all of the rest of us, my grandchildren have the greatest memories of him. May the wonderful memories sustain you throught this very difficult time.
Alan D'Elia
January 22, 2014
John Cooler was an outstanding teacher and a wonderful person. "The ramifications and repercussions" (his favorite phrase) of having taken his botany class at SHS in 1964 reverberated through subsequent educational and career paths for me.
Jim Torricelli
January 22, 2014
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Anna Mulch
January 21, 2014
I knew John from his daily visits to the YMCA. We had a running joke where he would tell me to get a tomato garden going, even though he knew that my green thumb was more purple, meaning things I tried to grow had a tendancy to run screaming. So to instill in me a respect for gardens, which I already had, he would bring me in bags of tomatos. I'm sure there are many stories that could be told of his generosity, his light, his heart. He would converse with me when he could, ask about how school was, what I was doing for Model Illinois Government and say that I would change the world. He would say "I'm proud of you kiddo". Ever time he came in he had a smile on his face and a spring in his step. On behalf of the Downtown Y, my sincerest thoughts go out to the family. He was an amazing gentleman. He was loved. He will be missed. I am so thankful that I had the chance to get to know him and benefit from his years of wisdom. The Y was that much greater for him having been a part of it.
Jacob Bunn IV
January 21, 2014
I was very saddened to learn of Mr. Cooler's passing. He was the finest science instructor at SHS that I ever had. I took three courses from him and, at the time, wished I could've taken more. He was terrific and an inspiration to any student lucky enough to have had him as an instructor. Godspeed to his family.
Carla DeLay
January 21, 2014
Mr. Cooler was one of my favorite teachers at SHS. I'm sorry for his loss and his family is in my thoughts and prayers.
beth szillagyi
January 21, 2014
what a great teacher this man was! always funny, never boring - he knew how to handle a room full of high school students. one of my favorite teachers.
Bernadine LaMont Boyer
January 21, 2014
I did my student teaching under Mr. Cooler in 1971. He was a great mentor who put me at ease in his classroom. I retired from teaching after 33 years thanks to the great beginning he gave me. My sympathy to you Mrs. Cooler and to your children. Rest in peace Jack Cooler.
Ed Walsh
January 21, 2014
Sorry to hear of Mr. Coolers passing. I never had a class with him and he was still one of my favorites at SHS (Class of 65).
Bissi DiCenso
January 20, 2014
To Mrs. Cooler, Alice and family:
Mr. Cooler was one of my very favorite teachers. He was so funny and his classes were never dull. He had an excellent sense of humor and was absolutely hilarious. I always enjoyed running into him with his dinner group. Rest in Peace, Mr. Cooler. I hope heaven has microphones.
Jen Horton
January 20, 2014
Mr. Cooler was my favorite teacher from SHS. He made school fun and I learned a ton. He was hilarious and kind and made you want to come to class everyday. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed.
Class of 95'
W. Stine
January 20, 2014
I would see Mr. Cooler occasionally, driving his black Hemi Chrysler. I would always smile at that. What an inspiration he was to so many, I know this kid got his love for all things phylum from him.
Butch & Lisa (Keefner) Cleeton
January 20, 2014
Dear Mrs Cooler, Alice & Joelyn,
We were so sad to learn about Mr Coolers passing. You were the best neighbors. Mr Cooler was a great man. He was always full of energy & fun to be around. My parents made the best choice by moving us to Val-E- Vue in 1974. We were so blessed to live next door to your family. My dad found great friendship with Mr Cooler. Dad enjoyed their Monday Night Football "Juggers" group as well as the trips hiking the Grand Canyon. They had a lot of great conversations that included eating record amounts of hotdogs! I have many fond memories of all of you. I won't forget the title Mr Cooler bestowed upon my sisters & myself. He referred to us as the "Val-E-Vue Bathing Beauties". He will certainly be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Our sincerest sympathy to each of you during this difficult time.
Karessa Widner
January 19, 2014
I am sorry for your loss. Mr. Cooler was one of my favorite teachers of all time! He taught so much to so many. I would think of him often and what he taught me, not just in the class but outside the classroom as well. He is a great man and will always hold a special place in my heart!
Suzanne Hindman
January 19, 2014
Mr. Cooler was a wonderful teacher, great demeanor and hilarious sayings. That part if him lives on in my classroom. Thank you, Mr. Cooler!
Virginia Torricelli-Bartletti
January 19, 2014
Mrs. Cooler and girls,
I was so sad to hear of Mr. Cooler's "Doc" passing. What a great man and such a hoot. Such a good friend to our family (Keefner and Torricelli)and so many great memories. Always a smile and warm hug when I saw him - not someone easily forgotten.
Jeff Torricelli
January 19, 2014
JC my dad and brothers enjoyed many good times at the hill in stlouis, fishing in Arkansas, making Italian susage and friendship. We all had him at SHS he was a very special man will be missed by the entire Torricelli family. May God bless your family
barb brammer
January 19, 2014
Sorry to hear of Mr. Cooler's passing….he was by far my favorite teacher at Springfield High (class of '75). He always was smiling and had a joke or two up his sleeve. Looked forward to his class….he will be missed still…..
Lindsey Helm
January 19, 2014
What a great guy! Loved to to see him and chat! Blessings to all of you! You are in our prayers!
Barb (Rawlings) Schwartz
January 19, 2014
To echo what so many of his students have shared in the Guest Book, he was an excellent teacher who made science fun and showed an interest in his students. I looked forward to his class. My condolences to you.
Phyllis Quast
January 19, 2014
He will always be alive and laughing in my memories. He was an excellent teacher and a fine man. I worked senior year as his assistant in the office he shared with Mr. Altizer. I had this knee sock thing going...all the wild pattern and colors that I could find. He never called me by my name. ..always "Socks". Sleep gently my good man.
Aaron Butts
January 18, 2014
It was always a pleasure to see Mr. Cooler in the halls at Springfield High, a true pleasure to learn from.
Debbie (Gaiser) Cribbs
January 18, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Cooler's passing. He was one of my favorite teachers at SHS. I took his Zoology class in 1974. I remember him for occasionally bringing exotic and bizarre foods to class, (roasted caterpillars in a sardine-like tin) and daring us to try them. He also had a mischievous smile as if he knew a juicy secret that he was not going to tell. He made learning fun, was a great teacher, and will be missed.
Anne Morris
January 18, 2014
To the Cooler family,
Mr. Cooler was a very memorable teacher to me many years ago. His humor and kindness made him a favorite on the SHS faculty. So sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts are with you.
Maria Speder
January 18, 2014
Deepest condolences to the family....Jack was so much fun and will be dearly missed.
Kelly (Werner) Behrends
January 18, 2014
Mr. Cooler, You were my favorite high school teacher and I think of you often. You encouraged me in my academics and cheered for me in my athletics. Thank you for touching my life. May you rest in peace.
January 18, 2014
Mary Alice & Family:
My Sincere Sympathy
Eleanor Schweitzer Sakris
Springfield, IL.
Judy Schafer
January 18, 2014
I know Jack Cooler had to be a tremendous man full of love for his children and grandchildren and respect for all he met. I work with Mark and went to visit his family one day. As I rounded the corner, I saw a gentleman mowing and he gave me a big wave and howdy do—I had never met him and, at the time, did not know who he was. At least one of his daughters has that same friendliness, loving, caring attitude and is a wonderful person; his son-in-law, Mark loves him and spoke so highly of him in all respect. This man was truly loved and respected and will be dearly missed. You all have my deepest sympathy. May God give you strength and peace and may happy memories fill your heart during this difficult time. Love and prayers to you.
Jeron Michel
January 18, 2014
Jack was a good friend. Never had a bad word to say about anyone. He had a way with words and it was always a treat to read just a simple "thank you" from him. He could grow the best tomatoes ever. I will miss him. God rest his soul.
Cindy Hildebrand
January 18, 2014
Thank you, Mr. cooler! I think of you every time I see a Bag of bones ;)
Krista Lohnes
January 18, 2014
Mr. Cooler was the best teacher! He made science fun and interesting!! He will truly be missed.
Kitty Springhart
January 18, 2014
Mr. Cooler was one of thr greatest teachers I ever had. He was intelligent, fun, laid back, and had a great sense of humor. My condolences to his family. May your many wonderful memories bring you peace during this time .
Judy (Yee) Drake
January 18, 2014
I remember both Mr. & Mrs. Cooler as school teachers. Condolences to the family.
Mike Roberts
January 18, 2014
Mr. Cooler was my absolute favorite teacher including college. He definitely made learning fun.
My condolences to his family.
Evelyn and Don Yurdin
January 18, 2014
How very sad we are to learn of Jack's death. He was a good neighbor who introduced our sons to fried green tomatoes. To all of you our heartfelt sympathy.
Barry C.
January 18, 2014
I had Mr. Cooler for sophomore Zoology and Driver's Education at SHS. He was a terrific teacher and person. I extend my condolences to your entire family.
Diane Rutledge
January 18, 2014
Jack's service to the school district was greatly appreciated! His influence lives on in his many students. Our thoughts are with his family.
Ricky Reed
January 18, 2014
You are going to be Missed Jack,My prayers for Your Family,I'm going to miss You're tomato cassarole!!Always Your Friend,Ricky Reed :)
Lynne Roetker Smith
January 18, 2014
Mr Cooler drove me home from summer school at Southeast one year when he was teaching and I had to take a class. He did this as a favor to my dad, Jack Roetker. He was such a fun and funny man and so proud of his family. I always thought if he were a teacher at Sacred Heart I actually might have actually enjoyed science!
Corwin Bentley
January 18, 2014
He was my favorite teacher. I was his teacher's assistant. He had a great sense of humor. His wife was my 2nd grade teacher. God bless him.
Brenda and Rick Baker
January 18, 2014
Mary Alice and family, you have our deepest sympathy. Jack had a wonderful personality and was a genuinely good man. It was always a pleasure to visit with him. He was also an excellent teacher. He will be greatly missed.
Deb Fricke
January 18, 2014
I am so very sorry of your father's passing. I know with personal experience of my own dad's just a year ago. I want you to know I didn't know. Being next door, I should have known. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Jim Griffin
January 18, 2014
JC....a man among men ...the best of the best! Fellow G-Cat
Mindy (Warner) Cory
January 18, 2014
I've known Mr Cooler since I was a child, what a kind, giving, caring man, always there to help his neighbors. My deepest sympathy to Mrs Cooler and family.
Melissa Albers
January 18, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family! I have such fond memories from SHS! Mr. Cooler touched sooooo many of us over his career! Thanks for impacting all of our lives! Stay cool, Mr. Cooler!
Heather (Griffin) Roark
January 18, 2014
I first met Mr. Cooler through my dad, Jim Griffin and our neighbor, Ed Cully. I have many memories of him from volleyball games and pool parties at the Cullys, the Grand Canyon trip my dad went on...to driver's ed and Zoology class. He was always happy to see you!
My thoughts are with your family.
Brian Barnes
January 18, 2014
I can think of no better compliment for a great teacher, than the fact that over twenty years later his former students still share stories of what Mr. Cooler did in Zoology class. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
DonDe Dellert jr
January 18, 2014
Mrs Cooler, I am so sorry to hear about Mr Cooler he was one good guy. We will miss him.
Marilyn & Don Dellert
January 18, 2014
So sorry to hear about Jack. Our sincere sympathy to you and your family. He was a great guy.
January 18, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sally Field Higgins
January 18, 2014
AMAZING teacher and man!!!
Linda K (Allen) Bryant
January 18, 2014
So sorry to learn of Mr. Cooler's passing. I had him for biology at Springfield High during 1966 and 1967. Always enjoyed his classes! Thoughts and prayers are with his family! RIP Mr. Cooler!
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