Patrick J. Cooper, of Bellmawr NJ and Lansdowne PA, on February 17, 2024. Age 59. Beloved husband of Gail Tomlin-Cooper. Adored father of Emilie Patrice (Christopher). Predeceased by his parents William E. Sr. and Anna-Miriam (nee Hunt) Cooper, brother Bill Cooper, and father-in-law Calvin "Sonny" Tomlin. Dear brother of Mark Cooper and Deborah Richey (Tom). Also survived by his brother-in-law Steven Tomlin (Angela), sister-in-law Debra Tomlin, and many nieces and nephews. Patrick will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Patrick enjoyed rock music, classic cars, trains, coin collecting, and the occasional round of golf, but as a former ultrarunner, Pat was especially known for his skill and passion for running. It all began when he ran his first race in Sea Isle at nine years old. From there, he went on to join the St. Philomena, Monsignor Bonner, and Drexel track teams. His adeptness led him to participate in races all over the map, including Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, and his great adventure in the USSR.
Pat's kind heart never hesitated to rescue, foster, or adopt animals in need. His treasured tortie cat, Lola, misses him dearly.
Most importantly, he loved seeing family and friends.
Patrick truly enjoyed working as a corporate trainer, and looked forward to returning to work after treatment.
He was the most wonderful husband and Dad, a happy, smiling, funny, gentle man.
We know Patrick's many health battles, and turn to his favorite lines from Theodore Roosevelt's Speech at the Sorbonne: "...credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena... who strives valiantly... who knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly..."
From a friend, "We are all better having known him."
There will be a viewing this Saturday, February 24th from 10am to 12pm at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, 126 SOUTH BLACK HORSE PIKE, RUNNEMEDE NJ. Prayer Service to follow at 12pm. Interment will be private at the request of the family. A luncheon to celebrate Patrick's life will take place in Cherry Hill at 1:30pm. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Patrick's memory to the Patrick J. Cooper Memorial Fund: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-patrick-j-cooper-memorial-fund?member=32585357&sharetype=teams&utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&utm_content=ai_control_ios&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer
Services
Visitation
Runnemede, NJ 08078
Service
Runnemede, NJ 08078
Laura and I will miss Coops dearly, but his kind spirt lives on in all of those who were blessed to know him. From the time I met Coops 40 years ago at the Drexel University Cross Country team, I knew I would like this cool, calm, collected soul that was a nice balance to my hyper, frenetic personality. You will be always be with by my side in spirit on my runs good friend!
Erv Beckert
1986 Coops and Erv Beckert, Philly Marathon, Finishing Strong
Our deepest sympathies to Mark and the entire Cooper family for your loss. Every time I saw him he was always smiling. Remember the good times.
Alan & Stephanie Keller
The Runner’s Journey
by Mark Gregory
In the stillness of this hushed embrace,
We gather ‘neath the sky’s soft grace,
To bid farewell with hearts held light,
To a runner who took flight.
Through morning mist and golden rays,
They journeyed forth on wooded ways,
Their footfalls gentle on the earth,
Their feet embraced the soil’s sweet birth.
With every stride, they found their song,
A rhythm steady, true and strong,
Their breath a whisper, a silent prayer,
A communion with the boundless air.
The finish line was just a gate,
To realms where runners contemplate,
In meadows vast and valleys wide,
Exploring death with joyful strides.
Now, in the hush of nature’s choir,
Their memory lives, a blazing fire,
As long as forests stand and rivers run,
The runner’s journey is never done.
Memories of Patrick will forever live on in the stories, laughter, and love you shared. We were fortunate to call him cousin, but he was always referred to as "one of the twins". It was always Patrick + Mark. Heart-felt condolences to Gail, Emily, Deb and Mark and your families at this time of tremendous loss.
I will never forget when you came into Gail's life: Her handsome Prince Charming. Then and Forever.
God gifted you to our family and I was blessed to have you as my brother. Be at peace and watch over us. Love you forever and always.
Deb
Happy and laughing
Your wings were ready but our hearts weren't. Gone too soon but you will be missed by all. Thank you Patrick may God bless you and welcome you home.
Rest in peace my dear friend. You were one of the kindest souls I have ever known. Your enthusiasm and love for family, friends and life was an inspiration to others. I am honored to have known you and to have been able to call you my friend.💕
The 3 amigos in 1968
You will be missed by all of us Coopers
Here’s to you 🍻 cheers OLD MAN 🤔
Till we meet again on the other side
I will love you forever my twin brother.
Mark
Add to Your Calendar
Obit Checkin
