Obituaries : Thomas Edwin Cooper “Coop”

In loving memory Thomas Edwin Cooper “Coop”

Thomas Edwin Cooper, of Vinton, IA, born November 9, 1959, and passed away on December 1, 2025, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer. He faced his illness with extraordinary strength, dignity, and perseverance.

Tom was the son of Dennis Cooper and Shirley (Cline) Cooper. He grew up in the Clare, IA community and graduated from Barnum High School, forming lifelong friendships and building the strong work ethic that defined his life.

From a young age, Tom worked as a farmer on his father’s land, learning the value of dedication and gaining a deep respect for the land. During this time, he also worked as a volunteer firefighter in Clare, IA. He later spent years with Knuth Farms. After working the farm for many years he moved to Cedar Rapids where he worked many years as a Foreman for Bill Lane Construction. His determination and reliability led him to open TC Construction, where he earned a reputation for craftsmanship and hard work. In later years, he embraced a new chapter when he opened Coop’s Roadhouse, creating a place that reflected his generosity, humor, and a love for his community. Many laughs and memories were made at Coops.

Tom found great joy in the outdoors—fishing, hunting, and riding his Harley brought him peace, freedom, and countless memories.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Cooper.

Tom is survived by his mother Shirley Cline, his stepmother Nancy Cooper, had his siblings: Jerry (Tina) Cooper, Matt (Peg) Cooper, Denise (Warren) Fevold, Wanda (Jeff) Hanson, and David (Lisa) Thielmann.

He is also survived by his four children: Naomi (Lenin) De La Rocha, Jamie (Taylor) Cort, and their mother Joy (Johnson) Labath; and Kaila (Gordy) Harrison, and Blaik Cooper, and their mother Renee Brecke.

Tom leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Isabel, Gabby, Gavin, Ellie, Isaiah, Taleah, Cooper, and Brecken, each of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy. Being Papa was his favorite title.

Above all, Tom was a loving father, devoted grandfather, loyal friend, and a steady, dependable presence to all who knew him. He will be remembered by his kindness, resilience, and the lasting impact he made on the lives around him.

He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Online Condolences can be left at www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com