Jon W. Cooper, a man who painted his life with the vibrant colors of humor, creativity, and love, completed his final masterpiece surrounded by family on August 25, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on Valentine's Day in 1948 in Steubenville, OH, Jon's life was a testament to the power of laughter and the enduring strokes of familial bonds. His journey concluded in Toronto, OH after a valiant bout with cancer, leaving behind a legacy as enduring as the classic cars and R&B music he cherished. Son of the late Wilbur and Frances (Cheatwood) Cooper, he was preceded in death by sisters, Mary Beth Pfabe and Margay Taylor.

Jon's life was a rich tapestry woven with the joys of craftsmanship, the thrill of classic automobiles, and the laughter that followed him like a shadow. He was a 1966 graduate of Jefferson Union High School. He later received his Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from the University of Akron and a master's degree from the University of Dayton. He was also a member of the Army National Guard for six years. Jon's career as an art teacher spanned 35 years, the majority with the East Liverpool City Schools, where he taught at Westgate Middle School before his retirement. There Jon shaped young minds with the same passion he channeled into his beloved 1965 Corvette.

Jon aimed to make every moment as enjoyable as possible, and his zest for life didn't stop at his doorstep. After his retirement, Jon stayed busy volunteering at the Historic Fort in Steubenville where his beautification efforts included building whimsical shelters around the electrical boxes, displaying train sets during the Christmas season, and decorating for Light-Up Night. He was the mastermind behind the award-winning float supporting the Grand Theater during the Steubenville Christmas Parade. He would ensure no two floats were alike, changing the themes every year and enjoying playing different characters with his family. The Steubenville Art Association, of which he was a member, benefited from his creative flair as well. In his quiet but lighthearted way, he made every event a spectacle that combined his love for the arts with his knack for bringing joy to others - a true Cooper creation.

Jon was also a skilled woodworking craftsman. His greatest architectural achievement was the family home he built himself - a labor of love that stood as a testament to his ingenuity and dedication. Whether crafting frames to house his paintings or fine details around his home and city, Jon's work reflected the same care and creativity he brought to every part of his life. His love for classic R&B music often filled the rooms he built, creating a soundtrack of soul and rhythm that matched his own.

Family was the heart of Jon's world. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Marianne, a partnership that was as harmonious as the finest symphony. They celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary on Aug. 21, 2025. Together, they raised a quartet of children: Alisa (David) Blazek, Amy (Ryan) Hopkins, Sean (Emily) Cooper, and Megan (Andrew) Piper.

Describing Jon is like trying to sketch the wind - words like funny, interesting, and creative come close, but the experience of knowing him was so much more. He was a man who could find the punchline in the mundane, an adventure in every family outing, and the beauty in the everyday.

As we bid farewell to Jon Cooper, we do so with a smile, knowing that somewhere up above, he's probably charming the angels with his dry quips of humor, and maybe even teaching them how to properly appreciate a classic Corvette or American Flyer train set. His spirit, like his laughter, is indelible - a mural of memories, lovingly crafted with the precision of a master woodworker and the soul of an artist, that will forever adorn the hearts of those who loved him. Goodbye, Jon, beloved husband and father. Though your brush has been set down, the masterpiece of your life will continue to inspire.

Family and friends will be received Saturday, Sept. 6 from 3 to 5 pm at the J.E. Foster Funeral Home in Toronto where Jon's Memorial Service will follow at 5 pm with Steubenville Mayor Jerry Barilla and Francesca Carinci, Esq. speaking. Attendees are encouraged to drive their classic cars, weather permitting.

Memorial donations in Jon's name can be made to two organizations of importance to him: The Historic Fort Steuben General Support Fund, Write a note: Jon Cooper, at https://www.oldfortsteuben.com/admission. Alternatively, checks can be made out to the "Old Fort Steuben Project," and mailed to P.O. Box 1787, 120 South Third Street, Steubenville, OH 43952. You may also give to the Steubenville Art Association by mailing a check to SAA, P.O. Box 1061, Steubenville, OH 43952 with "Jon Cooper" in the memo.