Obituary

Robert Edward Cooper died peacefully at home in Redding CA on January 23rd, 2019 at 7:30pm in the presence of his wife Deborah and adoring canine companion Thelma.
Robert “PopPop” Cooper was a truly original character who brought inspiration and joy to everyone he met. Robert will be remembered as an epic story-teller, a voracious student of history, design and Japanese culture, an erudite source on many subjects, especially the natural world and plants. From a young age, Robert pursued a passion for gardening and spent countless hours beautifying outdoor spaces everywhere he lived. As Deb puts it, “Robert never met a plant that he didn’t love”. Over the course of his life Robert travelled the world extensively and shared the stories of his adventures enthusiastically with anyone who would listen. Robert will be remembered for his mischievous laugh, his ever-changing and always entertaining facial hair, his prodigal ability to nap anywhere anytime and for being an incurably terrible driver. Most of all Robert will be remembered for the contagious curiosity and wonder that he brought to every aspect of his life.
Robert is survived by his wife Deborah Wedick-Cooper, brother Donald Cooper, son Sasha Dietschi-Cooper (Sarah Dietschi), daughter Robin Fish (Adam Fish), step-daughter Norah Chilcoat (Erin Chilcoat), step-son Hugh Wedick and 6 grandchildren. Robert was previously married to Heidi Dietschi of Ojai, CA.
Robert was born on June 4th, 1935 in his family home on Charles Street in Coatesville, PA to parents Earl Marsh and Marguerite Cooper. Robert received a BFA from the University of Pennsylvania in 1959 after which he accompanied the University of Pennsylvania’s Project Tikal in excavating and restoring the ancient Mayan city of Tikal in Guatemala. He entered the army shortly thereafter and was honorably discharged from reserve duty in 1965. Robert began his career in Design and Architecture in New York City and also practiced in New Hampshire, Vermont, Japan and Phoenix, AZ.
In his retirement in Redding, CA Robert supported and was active in the North State Symphony, California Native Plant Society, Swedish Colonial Society. He read weekly to middle-schoolers at the Redding Library, was a docent-in-training at the Turtle Bay Exploration Park and was a supporter of the Mercy Foundation North, Neurocritical Care Society.
Arrangements are being made for memorial services this spring in Pennsylvania and Vermont. More details to follow.
Contributions on Robert’s behalf can be made to:
Mercy Foundation North
Neurology Service Fund
2526 Edith Ave, Suite E
Redding, CA 96001
Rest in peace Robert - we love you and will miss you dearly.