Richard Cooper, age 87, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026. Richard was born December 10, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late John and Elizabeth (Chernitsky) Cooper.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves as a rifleman. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 64½ years, Margaret (Fink) Cooper, and a loving father to Gregory, Vincent (Sandie), and Christopher (Jennifer). He was also a proud grandfather to Tyler (Jessie), Jaret, Lucas, and Victoria, and a cherished great-grandfather to Archer.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John; and his sister, Elizabeth Jane.

In his free time, Richard found joy in many passions. He loved G-scale model trains and built an impressive collection over the years. He taught himself to paint, specializing in landscapes, and also dabbled in photography. A devoted, although reluctant, Cleveland sports fan, he cheered for all of the hometown teams. In his younger years, he enjoyed taking Margaret on dates to hockey games. Richard also enjoyed being a youth soccer coach with Strongsville City and St. Joseph's Church CYO sports.

The family will welcome guests from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Waite Funeral Home, 3300 Center Road, Brunswick, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00 am on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 12700 Pearl Road, Strongsville, Ohio. Richard will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery in Valley City, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Richard's name to a charity of your choice.

Words of comfort may be shared on Richard's tribute page at www.waitefuneralhome.com.