COOPER, Robert James, Jr.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ March 18, 2011 Robert James Cooper Jr., 61, died Friday, March 11, 2011, at his home in Show Low, following a sudden illness. He was 61 years old. Bob was born May 20, 1949 in Yonkers, Westchester County, New York to the late Robert James Cooper and Beverly Frances (Berkfield) Cooper. He was a U.S. Army veteran and worked as a plumber throughout his life. He has lived in Arizona the past 32 years and thoroughly enjoyed living in the White Mountains. Bob was young at heart and was an avid RC enthusiast, specifically an Aircraft RC enthusiast. He was a member of the Bald Eagle Squadron RC Flyer Club and was Contest Director Certified with the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Bob designed and built most of his own aircraft from scratch and loved to teach people to fly RC planes. Bob also loved being in the great out-of-doors. He was an expert fisherman and hunter and could actually claim that he bagged a 900-plus pound elk with his bow. He also was musically gifted and enjoyed playing his guitar for friends, family and anyone else within earshot. His sons always loved hearing his rendition of Peter, Paul and Mary's classic, "Puff, The Magic Dragon." Bob lived his life with a carefree attitude, making the most of it wherever he was. He would not want those who knew him to mourn his death, but rather, celebrate his life by living theirs to the fullest. Robert James Cooper, Jr. is survived by his mother, Beverly Sargent; two sons: Robert J. Cooper, III, Timothy Cooper; two grandchildren: Mattaea Cooper, Shayde Jayne Cooper; two brothers: Thomas Cooper, John Cooper; and sister Patricia Bowen. In addition to his father, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Andrew L. Cooper. In lieu of flowers, take a moment to do something nice for yourself, as Bob would have wanted it that way. Funeral arrangements are pending. For updated service date and time, visit Silvercreekmortuary.net. Condolences may be sent to: Rob Cooper, 638 S. Queens Dr., Nampa, ID 83687 Owens Livingston Mortuary of Show Low handled arrangements. Those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book are invited to visit website www.owenslivingstonmortuary.com.