Cimarron – Barton Collier Cooper, 69, passed away peacefully at his home in Cimarron on May 13, 2025. Born on July 27, 1955, in Lockney, Texas, Barton was the son of Jerry and Faye (Mauldin) Cooper. He spent his early years in Lockney, where he graduated from Lockney High School in 1973. After graduation, he began farming alongside his grandfather, planting the roots of a lifelong connection to the land and hard work.

In the late 1980s, Barton moved to Howell, and on January 3, 1997, he married Joan Heeke. That same year, the couple made their home in Cimarron, where they raised their family and built lasting friendships. When Barton came into Joan's life, he wholeheartedly stepped into the role of father, raising her sons as his own. He guided, supported, and loved them with unwavering devotion—never out of obligation, but out of deep affection and commitment.

Barton had a knack for finding hidden treasures at farm equipment auctions and often traveled across the region for his business. He was also a competitive spirit, frequently participating in go-kart races. An avid snow skier, a lover of live music, and someone who never met a stranger, Barton lived life with contagious enthusiasm and a big heart.

Among his many passions, wrestling held a special place in Barton's life. He was not just a fan—he was a true student of the sport. Whether it was cheering in the stands, watching matches on TV, or passionately discussing technique and grit, Barton saw wrestling as more than competition; he saw it as a test of will, discipline, and character. He was especially proud to support A.J. and the Cimarron wrestling programs, showing up not just as a father and fan, but as a steadfast mentor and champion of young athletes. For Barton, wrestling wasn't just a pastime—it was a reflection of the values he lived by: perseverance, tenacity, and heart.

More than anything, Barton cherished his family. He found his greatest joy in being a father to his son, A.J., and was a proud supporter of all his children's and grandchildren's endeavors. He was always there as a supporting fan for as many events as he could attend.

Barton is survived by his son, A.J. Cooper of Cimarron, and A.J.'s mother, Joan Heeke-Cooper, also of Cimarron; stepchildren, Alex Vogel of Cimarron, Chris Vogel and wife Sirena of Cimarron, and Curt Vogel and wife Tatum of Dighton; seven grandchildren, Connor, Ben, Charlie, Isaak, Zach, Lily, and Evie. He is also survived by his mother and stepfather, Faye and Bill Chapman of Dallas; two sisters, Kathy McDonough and husband Kevin of Falmouth, Massachusetts, and Lisa Hudson and husband John of McGregor, Texas; his stepmother, Elsa Cooper of Lubbock, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Cooper, and his brother, Paul Cooper.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church Fellowship Hall, 302 N. Main Street, Cimarron, Kansas. A private family burial will take place in Lockney, Texas. In accordance with Barton's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cimarron Junior High/High School Wrestling Programs, in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared online at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.