CANADIAN COLLEGE OF PERFORMING ARTS & the CANADIAN HERITAGE ARTS SOCIETY
February 21, 2025
In Memory of Mel Cooper 1932–2025
From the whole community of the Canadian Heritage Arts Society (CHAS) and the Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA), we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Carmella, and family on the passing of Mel Cooper on Thursday February 20, 2025.
We take this moment to pay tribute to his contributions to our creative community, as Mel was a strong supporter of both CHAS and CCPA, the college it owns and operates in Oak Bay, BC. From the very beginning, Mel was connected to our work including in his role as an Honorary Board Member, dedicated supporter, and lifetime ticket holder.
“He was a big player who made room for everyone, always taking the time to make individuals feel seen, valued, and welcomed.” – Caleb Marshall, former Managing Artistic Director of CCPA.
Mel Cooper made an impact on the CHAS – CCPA community which no one will forget. His contributions seem endless; a few highlights include the successful oversight of the Dedicated to David (Foster) legendary event, for which former Board Governor Maureen Shaw will “always remember his leadership in the creation and implementation of the Gala Event which [she] had the privilege of working on with him, Marguerite Rowe and the CCPA Team” in 2017. He was always promoting new initiatives while supporting CCPA such as the student food bank that continues to support and feed CCPA students today. Former Board Chair, Marguerite Rowe, recollects “He never stopped coming up with ideas that could enhance the College…Mel was an extraordinary human being – kind, sincere, gregarious, ambitious – we are all better for knowing him.”
Mel’s contribution to the arts in Victoria wasn’t only limited to what he could do with his own time and financial supports, but also by his ability to inspire similar community support in others. At his 90th birthday celebration at the Government House in 2023, the Mel Cooper Fund for Youth Development and the Performing Arts, managed by the Victoria Foundation, was announced, with the aim of continuing the inspiration of the performing arts and the legacy of Mel Cooper in the rewarding spirit of giving back to the community. CCPA were proud to be involved with this event, and have students perform for Mel and his birthday guests.
His generosity and creativity were well known, from broadcasting careers to volunteer boards, Mel never hesitated to use his position in these companies to the fullest and most positive way; driving leadership in a way that inspired others around him. “I will forever feel grateful for his dear friendship, mentorship, and exceptional community leadership” reflects Randall Mang, former Board Governor. Randall, along with many other members of our community, will cherish their memories with Mel; may he rest in peace.
Messages of condolence and fond memories of Mel Cooper will be collected by CHAS from our community to share with his family. If you have any such memo ries, they can be sent to info@ccpacanada.com.