GARY DEAN COOPER, 64 of Delta, PA, died on Monday, February 1, 2021 in Bob Fryer & Family Inpatient Center, Mt. Joy, PA. He was born in Havre de Grace, MD on February 13, 1956; he was a beloved son of James P. and A. Margaret (Keesee) Cooper.

Gary was known for his love of agriculture, was very fond of John Deere Tractors and the dairy cows on the family farm in Delta. He enjoyed going to rodeos, watching western shows and movies, playing bingo, bowling and especially going out to eat. He always looked forward to family get-togethers and celebrations. Gary was involved with Penn-Mar Human Services and he made numerous friends through their program. Friends from the Beaver Dam Lane program of Penn-Mar remarked that one could probably devote the most soaring paragraphs that language has to offer to about this man and still fall short. Gary had a positive effect on everyone he met and had the ability to make each person feel like they had been friends for years. He was a beloved trickster who rarely passed up times to grab an early snack or play a trick on those he was closest to. He created meticulous works of art that sometimes involved painting canvases and frames. He was quite talented at playing darts and was a very successful dodge ball player.

Gary participated in Special Olympics where he competed in softball, basketball and bowling winning numerous medals. He had a hilarious warm personality, led a rich life and his smile was contagious.

He is survived by:

Three siblings-

James E. Cooper of Delta, PA

Janet C. Evans (Bob) of Delta, PA

Nancy J. Olchewsky (David) of Street, MD

Four nephews and a niece

Jeffrey Evans and Michael (Deb) Evans

Kevin (Kimberly) Olchewsky and Kyle Olchewsky

Laura Olchewsky

Great nieces and nephew

Katelyn, Karina and Krystine Evans; Simeon Olchewsky

Services will be held on Friday, February 5, 2021 at Harkins Funeral Home, 600 Main Street, Delta, PA with a viewing from 1:30 – 2:30 followed immediately with the funeral service. Chaplain Ray Christman of Hospice and Community Care will officiate with interment in Mt. Nebo Cemetery next to his parents.

In lieu of flowers, his family would appreciate memorial contributions to Penn-Mar Human Services, 310 Old Freeland Road, Freeland, MD 21053.