Robert Coopman was born in the Netherlands in September 1940. This 1941 photograph shows Robert holding a telephone while sitting next to a teddy bear. He and his parents lived in Amsterdam where his father was a salesman and bookkeeper.
In July 1942, fearing for their safety, Robert's parents placed him in hiding with the Viejou family in Naarden. He was less than two years old. He lived as a member of the household until August 1944, when a neighbor betrayed them.
Robert was eventually deported to Theresienstadt. His parents were deported to Sobibor.
Although malnourished and ill, Robert survived Theresienstadt. The Viejous eventually found Robert and after he had recuperated, he returned to live with his rescuer family until he was 18 years old.
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