Gary Neal Cooper , 69, of Corpus Christi, TX died unexpectedly on September 10, 2022 from injuries sustained in a boating accident.  His loss was completely unexpected and the family is shocked and deeply saddened.

Gary was born on October 10, 1952 to Felton and Jeanne Cooper in Corpus Christi, TX.  He graduated from Mary Carroll High School in 1970.

Gary Cooper or "Coop" was a well-known and respected bay fishing guide in Port Aransas, TX.  He spent many years working in the restaurant business, but his love for fishing steered him to start his own business "Coops Guide Service" in 1990.  He dabbled in off shore fishing, but the bay was his calling.  He became a well known fishing guide over the decades even mentoring others.  Family and customers who were lucky to spend time on Coop's boat were welcomed with stories, jokes and unique personalized experience with a true angler.  His passion for fishing did not stop once he stepped off his boat.  He spent countless hours preparing fresh fish into delicious meals.  This became his lifestyle, and a way for him to show his love for others. His personality was radiant, and he left an impression on every single person he met.  The number of stories and jokes that he could tell off the top of his head would leave anyone within earshot laughing for hours.  Anywhere you went around town, if you brought up "Coop," there was a story not far behind.  He left such a positive impression on those around him and loved his family and friends more than anything.  Customers became friends who booked yearly and family time on the boat turned into memories to be held onto forever and share with younger generations.  The love of the water, fishing, cooking and telling stories will be a legacy Coop has passed on and will continue with all those that knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Bonnie Collins Cooper; Daughter and son in law, Stacy and Bill Throneberry of Conroe, TX and her mother Gloria LaTour;  Sons and daughters in law, Justin and Kate Cooper of Cypress, TX, Eric and Jenna Cooper of Corpus Christi and their mother Kathy Jansen: Seven grandchildren; Amber & Evan Throneberry, Max, Claire & Jack Cooper, Emma & Ryann Cooper.  Siblings; Ervin (Katy) Cooper, Beverly Mckee, Patricia Cooper, Mary (Kevin) Duke, Alice (Rodney) Matocha; Numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a private family service followed by a celebration of life at Woodys Last Stand in Port Aransas, TX - Saturday, September 24th between 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. BYOB and don't forget your fishing shirt, hat and flip-flops!