Donald Frederick Cooley (Maybe Fredrick. No one knows if the second 'e' belongs or not.) passed away peacefully at his home on May 31st at approximately 2:30am.

He is survived by his wife, Bev Cooley; his children, Chris and Mike; his grandchildren, Ali and Billy; and a little over 1300 DVDs that he recorded over the last several years.

Dad had an auspicious start. Born in Independence Kansas in 1935, to Glenn and Edna Cooley, the Dr. had to climb in through the window because the house was under quarantine. The youngest of three, he had a childhood filled with trying to be just as mischievous as his two older brothers. After completing high school, he joined the Navy where he served 3 years as a Machinist's Mate. He returned to Independence and started Community College. He met Mom in Independence. They married on Aug. 9, 1959. Dad continued his education, eventually graduating with honors with a BS in Chemical Engineering from Kansas State University and started a long successful career that took him all over the world.

Dad was frequently the smartest man in the room. He lived by the motto, "Sometimes right, sometimes wrong, but always confident." He had quite a few hobbies over the years, but he will be remembered most for that one song he knew on the guitar, his furniture making, those DVDs, and above all, being a good person,and a caring loving father and husband.

At Dad's request, there won't be a public service or ceremony. Please celebrate his life as you see fit. In lieu of cards or flowers, please consider donating to:

Ascend Hospice
4550 W 109th St
Overland Park, KS 66207

Or, you could always stop by and relieve Mom of some DVDs.