Obituary of Richard  “Rick”  Brian Cooper

Richard “Rick” Brian Cooper, 49, passed away on December 27^th 2020 after a brave battle with cancer.  Rick was born in Ft. Lauderdale and lived in Marion County for most of his life.  Rick was born to Norman and Patricia Cooper in 1971.  Rick is survived by his wife Lisa Mulkey Cooper, his daughter Katie Cooper, his mother Patricia Cooper and numerous close extended family members.  Rick was a great husband, father and lifelong friend to many.  He was a big guy with an even bigger heart.  He kept every promise he ever made.  Rick can never be replaced and will be greatly missed.    

At the time of his death, Rick was employed by Lockheed Martin. Rick was previously employed by American Panel and Metal Container Corporation.  Rick was mechanically inclined and took great pride in his work.  Many of his current and former co-workers were dear friends to him.   

Rick loved everything about the outdoors, but he especially loved to fish.  He would fish anywhere but was partial to saltwater fishing in the gulf.  He enjoyed taking yearly vacations with his family to the Smoky Mountains for sightseeing, hiking, looking for bears and the rare white water rafting trip.  

A private memorial service for Rick will be held on Saturday January 23^rd 2021 at 11:00am at Hiers Baxley Funeral Home in downtown Ocala, The family will be observing social distancing for the service. The family would like for you to join them in celebrating Rick’s life in the live streaming service from Tribucast: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/111993095 /   This day would have been Rick’s 50^th birthday.   

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation in his name at https://fcsf.org/ways-to-help/donate/.