Richard Cooper

Rick’s life began on December 17, 1964 in St. Joseph, MI, the son of John “Jack” D. and Phyllis (Fitzgerald) Cooper. He graduated from Hillsdale College in 1987 with his Bachelor of Arts degree and from Western Michigan University in 1993 with his Master’s Degree. Rick was united in marriage to the former Penny Foote on August 8, 1987 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet. He was the owner of Rick’s Pier’s and Rick’s Liquor Store in Sister Lakes. Rick also taught adult education for Dowagiac Union Schools for several years. He was past exulted ruler of the Dowagiac Elk’s Lodge # 889 and involved in many activities in the lodge. He was a parishioner of Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Sister Lakes. Rick loved the outdoors and he enjoyed his rose garden. His friendly and warm personality drew people close to Rick and he enjoyed his friends very much. His loving family includes his wife Penny of Sister Lakes, children Josh and Lea Cooper of Sister Lakes, parents Jack and Phyllis Cooper of Sister Lakes, In laws Dennis and Marion Foote of Punta Gorda, FL, brothers John (Candy) Cooper of Dowagiac, and Bob (Chris) Cooper of Dowagiac, nieces and nephews Jeff (Felicia) Cooper, Drew Cooper, Stephanie Cooper and Kristy Cooper, great niece and nephew Baylon and Rowan Cooper, brother in law Dennis (Vicki) Foote of Dowagiac and sister in law Michelle ( Dan) Burch of Plainwell. Rick passed away at his home on Wednesday January 16, 2013. His family will gather with friends on Sunday from 2-6 p.m. at Yazel & Clark Chapel where a rosary prayer will be offered at 6 p.m. led by Deacon Frank Wesolowski. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Rick will be laid to rest in Sacred Heart of Mary Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Rick’s name may be directed to West Michigan Cancer Center. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Rick at www.yazel-clark.com.