Br. Benedict Cooper was born in New Amsterdam, New York, 13th of July 1937. He is survived by his two daughters and a son. Brother Benedict lived on the Abbey grounds for some years since his wife died. lt was only in the year 2011 that he made his Oblation. Brother Benedict was a man that was never angry, always with a smile on his face. One of the biggest jobs he performed in the Abbey was his service in the Sacristy, keeping things in order and clean. We are grateful for his service. Brother Benedict prided himself on being part of the Saint Petersburg Cathedral choir. At the end of his life his vibrato was so strong that he was no longer able to sing, but when he did, he overcame the singing of all of us. He will be remembered so much when we gather to sing as a community. Brother Benedict was a man that was happy. lt is admirable that, at an older age, he was willing to live under the Rule of Saint Benedict and the Abbot. Brother Benedict accepted corrections and was ready to learn the monastic way of life without any problems. May he rest in the assurance that we will miss his presence in the Abbey.

The Abbot and monastic community ask you for your prayer for his eternal rest and the peace of mind and heart of his family.

A viewing service will be held on Monday, January 2nd at 7:00 pm in The Abbey Church. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday the 3rd of January 2017 at l0:00 am in the Abbey Church.

Saint Leo Abbey Church

Saint Leo Abbey Church