Kooper “Koop” McCabe was a charming, charismatic, outgoing and funny person who touched more lives than he even knew. He was a senior at Galion High School, where he played football and wrestled. He passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, August 30, 2022. His death has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates and classmates.
A Passionate Student-Athlete
Koop was big into nutrition, weightlifting, diesel trucks, fast cars and loved his family. He recently started working at Roosters Restaurant in Mansfield as their first male host. He also excelled in sports, especially football and wrestling. He was the starting nose guard for the football team and a standout wrestler. He missed the last wrestling season after having surgery for a torn labrum, but he was determined to come back stronger. He moved to the defensive line for his senior year in football after spending a lot of time in the weight room. He lined up beside his best friend, Landon Kurtzman. He was playing really well and kept things light in the locker room. He was always smiling and making his teammates smile. He was like his own cartoon character, according to his football coach Matt Dick.
A Sudden and Shocking Death
Koop passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, August 30, 2022. The cause of his death has not been disclosed by his family or the authorities. His death came as a shock to everyone who knew him. The school was notified of his passing on Wednesday morning and immediately offered counseling and support to the students and staff. The superintendent, Jen Allerding, sent out a letter to the families, saying that the staff at Galion City Schools cared about their children and the feelings they may be experiencing at this difficult time. She also included an article from the National Association of School Psychologists for how parents can support their children.
A Celebration of His Life
The family received friends from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 3, 2022 at Wesley Chapel, 240 South Market St., Galion, Ohio 44833 where a celebration of life ceremony was held at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Joe Stafford officiating. The family requested that memorial contributions be made to the Galion Wrestling or the Galion Football program in care of the funeral home.
Koop is survived by his parents, Herbert D. III and Jessica R. (Redmon) McCabe; sister Lydia R. McCabe; twin brother, Ryder G. McCabe; maternal grandmother, Brenda Frost of Galion; numerous aunts and uncles, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by Shelby Ann Lust; great-grandfather, Ulis Hess; great-grandmother, Vernie Walter; grandparents, Nancy and Bill Bollinger and great-grandparents, Roslie and Harrison Redmon.
Koop McCabe was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend and teammate. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the memories and stories of those who loved him. He was a bright light in the Galion community and beyond.
