Conrad Derrick Cooper

The sun has set on a life well lived. Conrad Derrick Cooper passed peacefully in his sleep on April 15, 2022, after living a long, fulfilling 93 years, filled with adventure. Born in 1928 to a military family in Manchester, United Kingdom, he joined the British Army, starting as a messenger. Medically released in 1947, he was told he likely would not live a full life due to a heart condition. Stubbornly refusing to accept that fate, Derrick spent the next 75 years living life to its fullest. Advised to rest, he took up competitive badminton. Advised to take it easy, he traveled around the world, before eventually moving his family from the United Kingdom to Brampton, Ontario in 1953. Canada offered him the opportunity to continue his passion for learning, earning his Bachelor’s degree from York University in 1972 at the age of 44, and beginning a new career as a teacher both at Westway High School and North Peel Secondary School. Throughout his career, he never stopped taking on new challenges, finding ways to encourage and inspire his students. Following his retirement, he continued his love of reading, golfing, and playing cards, be it euchre or cribbage. It was impossible to find an unfinished crossword in the house; he would always have it completed before the paper touched the table. His quick wit and storytelling will be missed by his family and friends. He always had a kind, encouraging word to say, and was intensely proud of his children and his family’s accomplishments. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his loving wife of 69 years, Joan, his children, Susan (Brian) and Colin, four grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Rest in Peace, husband, dad, grandad, friend.