Obituary of Thomas Bickette Cooper, II

Thomas Bickette Cooper II, 66 of Bradenton passed away Sept. 11th at Manatee Memorial Hospital with his family by his side. Tom was born on February 25, 1947 to Thomas and Zelda Cooper. He attended Manatee High School and Manatee Votec. Tom was head grounds keeper at Pirate City for many years and retired from the City of Bradenton in 2009. He is survived by his sister Betty Schamber and brother-in-law Woody, nephews, Shawn Schmber (Amiee), Chris Schamber Hope) and niece Heather Dawn Schamber Thompson Kenny). Tom was Vice-President of the VFW men's Auxiliary Post 9226, Ellenton. He looked at everything with the eye of an artist. He was an avid photographer, sculptor, painter and creator of art in many forms. Tom never met a stranger and always had a smile and conversation for everyone. He was always thinking of others' needs and willing to go above and beyond to help. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, September 21st, 11:00am at Griffith-Cline Funeral Home, 720 Manatee Ave., Bradenton, followed by a luncheon and Celebration of Life at VFW Post 9226, 3511 12th St. E, Ellenton, FL. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to VFW National Home for Children, 3573 S. Waverly Road, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827, www.HelpHopeHonor.us, 800-424-8360, then tell them Tom sent you. Arrangements made by Griffith-Cline Funeral Home. www.GriffithCline.com