Dennis Wayne “Den” Cooper , age 85 passed away Thursday April 21st, 2016 at his home in Ithaca, MI with his family by his side. He was born June 15th, 1930 in St. Johns, MI. the son of Hollis and Louise Cooper of Middleton, MI.
Den was a graduate of Fulton High School Class of 1950 ish... ( He often told the story of only repeating the 8th grade 3 times... HA) While in school he participated in football and FFA, and worked on the family farm. After high school Dennis worked various odd jobs until he enlisted in the United Sates Airforce, serving 4 years during the Korean Conflict.
In the early 1960’s Dennis acquired the Chevrolet franchise in Ithaca and built his dealership “Den” Cooper Chevrolet. Then in the early 1980’s he acquired the Buick franchise combining them into “Den” Cooper Chevrolet - Buick.
Den is survived by his children Douglas Cooper, Deborah (Ted) Komperda, Daryl (Denise Reese) Cooper, D-j (Michael) Krum, Step Daughter Pat Dixon. His brother Dee (Bonnie) Cooper, his sister June Smith, and brother-in-law Richard Abbott as well as many grandchildren, great grand children, and nieces and nephews.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, sisters Jean (Martin) Richards, and Janet Abbott, brother-in-law Dale Smith, Wife Virginia Cooper, his son Daniel Cooper, grandson Chad McCormick. Peg Marcus, and long time companion Pauline Merchant.
Visitations are at Barden Funeral home in Ithaca, Mi Tuesday April 26th 6pm- 8pm, and Wednesday the 27th 2pm– 8pm. Funeral services will be held Thursday April 28th at 11am at the United Methodist Church, Ithaca, MI. Pastor George Showers will officiate and burial will follow at Ithaca Cemetery. Family requests donations in Dennis’ name to be made to Ithaca Fire and/or the Commission on Aging.