Remembering Michael Cooper, lifelong Lib Dem and Ashdown Forest Conservator
Michael Cooper (1937-2022) was a lifelong Liberal Democrat and became well-known to us particularly during his retirement years when he was a passionate and active supporter of the local Lib Dem team. Michael was happy to co-operate to promote the Lib Dems at local level by standing as a candidate in elections where we had little chance of winning and giving local residents the opportunity of voting Lib Dem. He was also happy to support other candidates in their campaigns, including delivering Focus leaflets.
The real passion for Michael was campaigning for the UK to remain part of the EU and he was very active in local and national campaigns, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and ideas, as well as financial support. He also supported local actions around Wealden, joining other campaigners in talking to passers-by about the benefits to the UK of EU membership!
Michael was the type of person that local Lib Dem parties rely on very heavily, being active and supportive in the organisation, without any expectation of recognition.
Michael served as a Conservator of the Ashdown Forest for 16 years and stood down only last year due to health considerations. During that time he was devoted to Ashdown Forest and to the reforms needed to ensure its preservation for future generations. His wise counsel is sadly missed.
Michael's involvement with Wealden Lib Dems was just one aspect of his general dedication to public service throughout his active life in many different roles, in addition to his devotion to his family as husband, father and grandfather.
Michael died in High Hurstwood on 19th September 2022 aged 85.
He will be sorely missed by the Wealden Lib Dems and we send our condolences to his family at this sad time.