Darel Ray Cooper, Jr., 70, of Cambridge Springs passed away at Meadville Medical Center on November 24, 2021. Born on July 7, 1951, in Meadville, Darel was the son of the late Darel Ray Cooper, Sr. and Lorraine Harvey Cooper. Darel graduated from Meadville Area Senior High School with the class of 1969 and received a bachelor’s degree in social work from Edinboro University. He worked for Montgomery Ward, Penn-Union in Edinboro for over 20 years, was a counselor for Hermitage House Youth Services, and retired in 2009 as a juvenile probation officer for Crawford County where he developed the community service program.
In addition to his hobbies of fishing, gardening, and planting trees on his property, Darel found great joy in being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He often traveled with his wife, Amy, to visit their children and grandchildren and liked to escape the winter weather by vacationing in warmer climates. He also had a passion for antiquing. Most trips, including their honeymoon, involved checking out at least one antique store or yard sale. When gathering with family and friends, Darel was always up for playing cards, Dominos, or Tripoley. Darel was a member of the First Church of God in Cambridge Springs.
In addition to his parents, Darel was preceded in death by sister, Terry Cooper; and infant sister, Linda Cooper.
Survivors include wife Amy Lombardo of Cambridge Springs, whom he married on July 26, 2003; son Jason Cooper and wife Nina of La Grange, IL and their children Maxwell and Nola; son Joshua Cooper and wife Brittany of Plain City, OH, and their son Bentley and triplets Bodhi, Bexley, and Brooklynn; stepdaughter Michelle Arbogast (Kuklinski) of Amherst, NH, and her son Gannon; stepson Jeffrey Kuklinski and wife Lisa of Sewickley, PA and their children Lydia, Charlotte, and twins, Alex and Alana; stepson Bob Kuklinski of Erie; sister Susan L Copeland of Meadville; and brother Gary Cooper of Washington.
Friends may call on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at the First Church of God in Cambridge Springs from 4 to 5 pm. A memorial service will be held at 5 pm with Pastor Kevin Myers and Reverend Julie Lamberson officiating.
Memorials may be made to the First Church of God, 634 Venango Ave, Cambridge Springs, PA 16403.
Josh – My sincere condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Your dad sounds like a wonderful man who was loved by all who knew him. I will be thinking of all of you in the days and weeks ahead. ~Amy
Darel’s family,
He and I went thru the social work program at EUP and frequently had classes together. He was always so fun to talk to and to do projects together. I Loved his sense of humor and will remember him fondly. So sorry to hear of his passing.
He had the heart of a social worker for sure.
Prayers and love to Amy and Darrel’s sons and daughter . Will keep you all in my prayers!!
Sending love and prayers for comfort to Amy and Darel’s family and friends. His caring ways will be remembered by many people. Darel used his talents to serve others. His comic (dry) wit will be missed and cherished. He was a wonderful character made in the image of God.
Heartfelt sympathies for Amy and family
Deepest sadness of the passing of Darel. Condolences to family and friends. Darel was kind, generous,caring,helpful,and always had time to listen and help others. RIP.