Obituary / Funeral Arrangements - Phil Cooper
It is now a couple of weeks ago that one of our longest surviving Club Members and former Director Phillip Cooper passed away suddenly at home. We here at De Lacy Motor Club are deeply shocked and saddened by his sudden passing. To the day of his demise, Phil, who was in his 80s , was still working in the car dealership which bore his name, going in and opening up every day.
Phil will be best remembered for his days driving as a semi works driver for BLMC , competing on events including the 1970 World Cup Marathon Rally as part of a team in an Austin 1800 "Landcrab". He was a member of a team of De Lacy Motor Club members who took part in the Tulip Rally and his name is engraved on the trophies, which are proudly displayed in the Clubhouse. Phil had expertly campaigned many BMC and Latterly BLMC cars in his career, including his Mini (which is still displayed in his dealership in Oulton, Leeds.), as well as his famous Allegro.
He has been responsible for mentoring and guiding many youngsters through the minefield of competing and he was always there with his dry wit and humour at club nights still into the 90s. He was married twice sadly losing both his life partners. He leaves behind a family who are keeping the business and the famous family name alive.
The Club are trying to organise a tribute to Phil by locating and assembling many of his cars or certainly cars from the era, Once we have something concrete to report we will post it here.
Meanwhile, the funeral for Phil will be held at Pontefract Crematorium at 1300hrs Tuesday 9th September, let's give him a send off he deserves.
Quote from Jonathon Pulleyn taken from Facebook: "Sad news, I have just heard that Phil Cooper has passed away. Phil was a very competitive driver in the 60s and 70s, well known for rallying beautiful ex works Mini Cooper S , Morris Marinas, Allegros, Dolomite Sprints and TR7V8’s. He achieved some remarkable results in these cars, perhaps the most famous one was fourth on the 68 RAC Rally when it was part of the European rounds. He was a mentor and good friends with Phil Lilley and supported him through his rallying and rallycross years.
Phil ran his families car dealership in Oulton near Leeds for many years and never retired from work. He will be missed by many. JP"
