Ronald H. Cooper

Ronald H. Cooper 96, of Bristol passed away on November 15, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family. Ron was born on March 23, 1927 in Logansport, IN to Russell Benjamin and Verna Francis (DePay) Cooper. He married Patricia Sue on December 30, 1977.

Ron and his father owned and operated The Cooper Mower Service in Osceola, IN for many years. He worked at United Airlines in South Bend, IN and was the vice-president of Trailer Life Publishing in the Elkhart regional office. He was an avid reader and enjoyed playing cards with his friends at the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He loved to golf, on Friday the 13th he hit a hole in one from 291 yards on the 13th hole. He had a passion for flying and was most proud of being an Instrument Rated Pilot and flew his own plane. When he was 76, he and his son parachuted from a plane. In the past he made several trips to Alaska for fishing and hunting. He earned a million-mile plaque from United Airlines. Ron enjoyed the river life, from boating and swimming in the St. Joseph River.  For over 20 years he was a  volunteer at the Elkhart Jazz Festival. He had a wonderful sense of humor, and a great memory for telling jokes. He truly loved family picnics and spending time with his family.

Ron is survived by his wife of 45 years, Patricia Sue Cooper of Bristol, IN., his daughter Judy (John Michael) Lackman of South Bend, IN., his stepson Ryan S. Solomon, 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Verna Cooper, his sons Steven Douglas Cooper and Michael Dean Cooper.

In keeping with Ron’s wishes there will be no services. Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting his family. Memorial donations may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, 1178 Fremont Court, Suite 2, Elkhart, IN 46516 www.hearttohearthospice.com Ron’s family would like to “Thank Senior 1 Care” for the loving help and support they gave to Ron when he needed it the most. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com