Theodore Cleveland "Ted" Cooper

1943 - 2015

THEODORE "TED" CLEVELAND COOPER On February 19, 2015 Ted passed away in his sleep at home after a long bout with Parkinson's. He was born in Eureka on February 21, 1943 to Ruby and Clarence Cooper. Ted is survived by his brothers Clarence and David, four nephews and several cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Ted graduated from Eureka High School. He took auto shop classes and enjoyed working on cars. He joined the Navy and was stationed in Guam. After the Navy, Ted began working on the docks around Humboldt Bay as a Longshoreman. Ted was employed by the Pacific Maritime Association International Longshore & Warehouse Union. He retired as a crane operator. Ted was always looking for adventures. He bought a Harley Davidson motorcycle in the 1960's and began racing it at the Samoa Drag Strip. He won many trophies going over 100 mph at the races. He joined the Redwood Skydiver Club and began skydiving near Ferndale. In 1967, Ted landed in the arena at the Fortuna Rodeo grounds along with other members of Redwood Skydivers. Ted made hundreds of parachute jumps. Ted wanted to try his luck at gold mining, so in the 1960's, he bought the Megram gold mining claim on the New River above Denny in Trinity County. Ted's claim included the historic "Megram Cabin". Ted did find some gold on the claim, however he had better luck in finding many large rattlesnakes. Ted then found his true love: boating on Humboldt Bay and in the Pacific Ocean. When Ted was not working, he could often be found in a boat having fun. This included sailing, fishing, or just out for a boat ride. Oh my, did Ted have many adventures in his boats. Ted was a member of the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local #14, Orick Weekenders Club, and 31 year member of AA. Ted was kind to all and had a long list of friends. Ted helped many folks throughout his life. His humor, charm and wit will be missed by all. A celebration of Ted's life will be held at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 3230 Harrison Avenue, on Friday, May 29th at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of Humboldt or the Boy Scouts. At his request, Ted's ashes were scattered at sea. Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com under obituaries.