Rodeo legend Roy Cooper, the 'Super Looper,' dies in fire at 69
Roy Cooper, the legendary rodeo figure known as the 'Super Looper,' tragically passed away at the age of 69 due to a house fire in Decatur, Texas. Celebrated as one of the greatest ropers of all time, Cooper's career began with a world championship win in 1976, leading to an impressive eight titles and an induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame just three years later. His untimely death has left the rodeo community in mourning, with many acknowledging the significant impact he had on generations of cowboys. The Texas Department of Agriculture and notable figures from the rodeo world have expressed their condolences, emphasizing Cooper's enduring legacy. Cooper's family, including his son Tuf, who is also a rodeo star, are grieving this sudden loss and are supported by the community's prayers and tributes.
Roy Cooper, a legendary figure in the rodeo world, was known as the 'Super Looper' for his exceptional roping skills and achievements, making him a revered icon in the sport.
Cooper's career skyrocketed after winning a world championship in 1976 during his first national finals, leading to a total of eight championship titles and his induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame by 1979.
His death, resulting from a house fire on his property in Decatur, Texas, has left his family and the rodeo community in shock and mourning, as expressed by his son Tuf on social media.
The profound influence Cooper had on the rodeo community is evident in the tributes from peers and institutions, including the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Professional Bull Riding CEO, who highlighted his lasting legacy.
Cooper made history by becoming the first roper to earn $2 million in ProRodeo by the year 2000, cementing his status as a groundbreaking and influential figure in the sport.
Born into a family with deep rodeo roots, Cooper's legacy is carried on through his son Tuf, a third-generation rodeo star, continuing the family's tradition in the sport.
The rodeo world, including the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee Andra Estes Beatty, expressed their grief and recognized Cooper as an inspiration to countless cowboys who followed in his footsteps.