Forum: Racing From The Past (go)
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A name I haven't heard mention much is Jack and Joy Cooper from Hutch. I first got to know him when he was a FmHA house inspector. What a gentleman. Later as we got to know each other we both realized we had a passion for racing. Once I assisted them sell methanol at a Sprint Car show at the old Lincoln Nebraska Fairgrounds. Jack sold me a basket case winch for my first wrecker when I got into the business along with an exploded view parts sheet to show me how to put it together. If I ever needed any military surplus parts Joy could locate them for me. As both have passed on several years ago I'd like to know what became of their son Jerry.

I remember they lived on North Plum probably the 3200 ish block. I'll bet Ray Cunningham who is lurker on the forum would know. Ray's dad the late Vernon Cunningham was one of Hutchinson biggest race fans. Or I should say open wheel as in sprint cars. I know he new Jack, Vernon probably had high blood pressure cause he sure could get worked up about racing. Ray was a walking talking encyclopedia of racing as a kid. He new every detail about a driver/car etc. Him and his dad were a team, lived and breath the sport.

Warren Vincent
Cans 4 Kansas Heroes

Hey Scotty,

I knew Jack and Joy. I was Jerry's best friend when we were in San Diego CA in the Navy from 1980-1983. We did a lot of work to Jerry's show Blazer together. He helped me rebuild a 1972 Vette. Last I saw Jack and Joy was New Years 1986. From what I have heard both Jack and Joy have passed away. Last I heard Jerry went to Phoenix, Az. I would really like to catch up with him. It has been far to long. Anyone help to re-connect would be greatly appreciated.

Lyle Jackson

Thanks Lyle, yes I remember that Blazer. One time when I went by the house on North Plum Jerry was just starting on it. I was amazed when they showed me a complete chrome plated frame in the back yard. If you ever hear from Jerry let me know! Thanks, Scotty

This is the lurker! LOL

Yes, my Dad was good friends with Jack and Joy Cooper and Jerry. We spent alot of time with them over the years at the races, and at their two homes when I was growing up. Jack helped several race teams over the years, and also sold racing fuel, and tires also I believe. I remember

he Helped the Goodrich's alot, but also Nance, and others. You will see him show up alot in old pictures, in fact he made the cover of Speed Sport once when he was helping out at the three day

BCRA show in Hutch in 1966. Thats the cover picture where they have the three winners, Don Brown, Gordon Woolley, and Lloyd Beckman. I believe Jack is standing next to Woolley who was driving for Bill Hoback in the #92 car. Jack always wore his Cowboy hat, so I can pick him out, almost every time. Jerry was a great model builder, and had the coolest pinewood derby car, a replica of the Goodrich Belle of Belleville. He was older than me, but was always very nice, and let me have several of the cars he made for a few dollars. I remember when he went to California, and saw him when he came back. I remember being envious because he got to go too Ascot Park. I haven't seen or heard from him in many years, but would love to talk with him again. The Cooper's were great people, and I really enjoyed being friends with them growing up.

Ray