Dawn Michelle Gates-Cooper,'s Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dawn Michelle (Missey) Gates-Cooper, 57, who departed from this world on Thursday, February 29, 2024. She was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Michelle was born on July 19, 1966 in Frederick, MD, to Frank McKinley and Ruby Ilene Gates.
Michelle was preceded in death by her father Frank, her mother Ilene, her brother William (Bo), and her father-in-law James W. Cooper, Sr. She is survived by her husband, James W. Cooper, Jr., brother Michael (Butch) Gates of Frederick, MD, nephews Michael (MJ) Gates and wife Stephanie of Wheeling, WV, and Jason Gates and wife Erin of Rockville, MD, great-nephew Grayson Gates, great-niece Avery Gates, mother-in-law Adele Cooper, sister-in-law Kim Cooper Pratt and nephews Matthew Hefner and Sloan Hefner, cherished friends Cheryl Hicks and Leslie Loy, and numerous loved aunts, cousins, and friends.
Throughout her life, she impacted many through her work in Information Technology and Human Resources, where she worked tirelessly to serve others. In addition to her professional achievements, Michelle was a loving wife who shared a deep bond with her husband, James W. Cooper, Jr. After knowing each other for more than 20 years, they tied the knot in 2019. Together, they navigated life's joys and challenges, creating countless cherished memories along the way. James was a pillar of strength and support for Michelle, and their love was a source of inspiration to all who knew them. Michelle and James’ home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and love, and they shared a mutual appreciation for lengthy Lego projects and all things Star Wars.
From a young age, Michelle was an enthusiastic member of brownies and the Girl Scouts clubs, and an avid trumpet player, traveling around Europe with America’s Youth Concert. She was a third-degree black belt in Hipkedo and TaeKwonDo and a committed supporter of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Michelle loved music of all kinds, but she was especially fond of Reba McEntire. She could often be found watching reruns of I Love Lucy starring her beloved Lucille Ball.
A celebration of Michelle’s life will be held privately at her home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Michelle’s memory to the Urbana Volunteer Fire & Rescue, as she had a deep affinity for helping those in need.
May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to us all.
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