Sandra Jean Cooper

Sandra "Sandy" Jean Cooper passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at her home at the age of 84. Sandra's family will be hosting a Celebration of Life from 12:00-4:00 PM, on Saturday, October 18th, 2025, at the Holiday Inn Alexandria in Banquet Room 4. Food and beverages will be provided.

There is a block of rooms under Sandy Cooper Celebration of Life for the 17th and 18th.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Dementia Society of America.

Sandra Jean (Kelly) Cooper, lovingly known as Sandy, was born on August 22, 1941, in Ashland, Wisconsin. She was welcomed into the world as the youngest daughter of John and Myrtle (Sneen) Kelly, joining her three older brothers. Growing up near the North Shore on Lake Superior, Sandy developed a deep affection for outdoors, spending many joyful hours swimming and camping in the area that held her heart.

After graduating from high school in 1959, Sandy began her journey into adulthood in Minneapolis, where she took a position at a bank. It was there that she met her future husband, Terrance “Terry” Cooper. They married in a Catholic ceremony in Morris, Minnesota, in 1965. Following their wedding, they settled in Morris while Terry pursued his college education, eventually moving to Burnsville, Minnesota, where they would raise their family.

Sandy devoted much of her career to the school system as a paraprofessional, demonstrating a remarkable affinity for working with children with special needs. Her compassionate nature extended beyond her professional duties; she volunteered extensively, positively impacting the lives of children both in and out of the classroom.

Sandy and Terry welcomed two sons into their lives, Jason and Kelly, and together they created a nurturing and supportive home. Her kindness and gentle demeanor made her a protective and loving mother. Sandy was dedicated and poured herself into her family's activities, especially cherishing the time spent cooking meals and cheering at sporting events. The family shared many adventures, including travels centered around the boys' hockey pursuits and memorable camping trips to the North Shore, where Sandy's love for the outdoors flourished.

Sandy and Terry enjoyed many pursuits together, including traveling to various countries, gardening, birdwatching, and playing cards with friends. In her leisure moments, Sandy found joy in boating, fishing, and savoring the thrill of watching the Green Bay Packers play. Her vibrant personality shone through in her love for her dogs and her generous spirit that endeared her to everyone she met. Sandy particularly enjoyed sharing delightful moments with her best friend and sister-in-law, Judy, and their laughter was infectious. She also adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was a loving and supportive Grandma.

After retiring, Sandy continued her dedication to helping others by volunteering at the local library and assisting children with special needs. Her commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her was a true testament to her character. She leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of love and kindness that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her.

Sandra "Sandy" Jean Cooper passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at her home at the age of 84. She is survived by her loving husband, Terry Cooper; sons, Jason (Robyn) Cooper and Kelly (Valerie) Cooper; grandchildren, Alexis, Brandon, Mitchell, Cody, Jake, Taylor, Hannah, Peyton, and Parker; great-grandchildren, Max, Maddy, Phoenix, Marlee, and Cohen; and her beloved dog, Brie. Sandy is preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, John, Donnie, and Buster Kelly.