James "Jay" Koopman

With heavy hearts Cindy and Dakota announce the passing of James (Jay) Koopman; a wonderful husband and loving father whose life was cut short by cancer. He fought an intense and courageous battle over the past year. Jay always strove for knowledge with a vengeance. If he didn't have the answer he would most definitely get it. Mentoring and sharing his knowledge was a goal he enjoyed to any who showed interest. He was dedicated to each and every company he worked for with the desire to achieve success. He often described himself as an 'asshole' (after 26 years I can agree 'sometimes'...) but he never appreciated his large heart and generosity that showed often to those who deserved (and even those who didn't).During his career; as his title changed to more leadership roles, he felt more and more a need to look and act accordingly. While some may glimpse a joke, a silly story from the past; he could in fact be a total goofball. Quoting movies and music lyrics that always fit the moment. Setting up jokes and elaborate scenarios on his coworkers that were likely embarrassing and fun entertainment to those who weren't in on the the joke. Many tried to get him back but he always cooked up something bigger! Jay also lived music. Constantly tapping out riffs on tables, his leg, even on my arm, nothing could stop the music!! He looked the part of the rockin' musician when I first met him; hair more than halfway down his back, carefree wardrobe of jeans, t shirts and converses. He played in numerous bands and jammed with many musicians in Canada and Grand Cayman. He even played on separate occasions in Cuba with such lovely and talented musicians, one who has a career in Miami now. If he could make a solid living as a musician I believe he'd have chosen music as a career. His logic dictated that wasn't the responsible thing to do. Most musician friends were in awe of his knowledge and skill at playing more than one instrument. While guitar was his first love (in my opinion the best) he was also quite the drummer, could slap the bass and even tickle the ivories. Sound and lighting was a secondary love along with accumulation of gear! We experienced so many things together (both good and 'challenging') our first home, ice storm of '98, international move, Hurricane Ivan, earth quakes, Dakota's birth, various travel spots, diving, finally settling in Florida (something he wanted long before I met him), even this last year with his health...life was never dull with Jay and he often said he had no regrets with all he'd done, seen and experienced (just not long enough...) Jay is survived by family in Canada. His Mom Anne, brothers Dave (wife Heather), Ken (wife Kirsten), nephew Matt, nieces Nicole, Sierra and Dahari, Aunts, Uncles and cousins, in laws George and Joan Pauls, (brother) Steve, (sister) Patty (husband) Kevin, nephews and nieces George, Allison and Jacob, Aunts, Uncles, cousins and many, many friends. In lieu of flowers should friends and family desire, contributions may be sent to Koopman Residence 6735 Clair Shore Drive Apollo Beach, FL 33572 to further Dakota's education fund (Jay's number one priority) Geek on my propeller head and ROCK it out for all to hear!