John Cooper - RIP

[russellsheath]

I don't post on here often enough - and assuming I haven't missed this elsewhere...sadly artist John Cooper passed away in February.

I can't over estimate the impact John's work had on me. Of all the artists who contributed to Action Force, John's work was my favorite, I can't explain why....it just spoke to me.

Operation Claymore was my favorite story and most likely my all time favorite comic book story. It influenced my choice to join the army, and while I was never to fight Red Shadow's in the Scottish Highlands, it was a quite a career that I can trace back to Operation Claymore.

I was fortune to speak with John last year and share with him how much his work has affected me, seemed genuinely happy that I had enjoyed "the stories with the one with the bucket on his head", something we both laughed at.

John was working on a commission for me when he became ill, which is a truly sad aspect of my 'relationship' with John and Operation Claymore.

I've begun work on a series of commissions based on Operation Claymore, by notable comic artists - from which I may make some prints, if there is interest.

Attached is the first in the series, by Captain America and Deathlok artist, Mike Perkins.

John was a big supporter of Bridlington Lifeboat and the RNLI and I have seen that John's family requested that any donations are sent to Bridlington RNLI.

John is survived by his wife and two children.

A detailed biography and tribute can be found here

http://downthetubes.net/?p=20091

RIP John and thank you.

[wolforrest]

Wow I would love some prints, a sad loss indeed.

RIP Mr Cooper, we salute you I'm sure there is a place for you in the RV.

[The Baron]

A true blow to the Action Force community, his work played a major part on both my childhood and the formation of this website.

I've moved this thread to the Births, Marriages and Deaths forum, I hope that's OK.

I too would love to see more about your planned prints!

[Quickfire]

Great story and a great initiative, excellent to hear you were in contact with Coops, also thanks for the RNLI tip.

Looking forward to reading more about the prints, a good way to remember Coops.